Hanukkah Begins Sundown Tuesday, Local Events Planned

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, begins at sundown Tuesday and goes until Dec. 24. The Jewish holiday commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago.

Here’s a look at some local celebrations and observances:

• The Philadelphia Museum of Art will host a Festival of Lights event at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19. There will be music and more. Click here for details.
• The Kimmel Center will host a free Festival of Lights Concert at Commonwealth Plaza on Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. Click here for details.
• The Philadelphia Chanukah Parade is Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. Click here for more information.
• A community Hanukkah party and giant menorah lighting will take place on Dec. 23 at Rittenhouse Square. The event will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Click here for details.
• The London Grill, 2301 Fairmount Ave., will celebrate Hanukkah with eight days of Latkes and Lights starting Tuesday evening. Each night a trio of latkes will be served. Click here for details.