Families in Merrick, Bellmore and Wantagh will have multiple ways to celebrate Hanukkah this year through a pair of community events hosted by Chabad Center for Jewish Life. Children can dive into hands-on holiday activities at the Miracle Makers’ Olive Press, while the wider community is invited to join the 19th annual Grand Menorah Parade and lighting. Here’s how you can take part.
1: Miracle Makers’ Olive Press
Children ages 5–11 can step inside the Hanukkah story with hands-on games, crafts, and challenges at Chabad Hebrew School’s Miracle Makers’ Olive Press. Participants will harvest olives, crush and press them into pure oil, solve the Maccabee Investigation mystery, and create their own Miracle Jug Menorah keepsake. Events are Sunday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon, and Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Non-students must register in advance at chs@chabadjewishlife.org or (516) 833-3057.
2: 19th Annual Grand Menorah Parade
Families are invited to assemble at Chabad Center for Jewish Life, Benson Lane, at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, for the parade led by the Merrick Fire Department and a special LED truck featuring community video footage. The parade concludes at the Merrick LIRR gazebo for the lighting of a 13-foot Grand Menorah at 3:45 p.m., followed by a parachute gelt drop and Hanukkah show starring students from Chabad Hebrew School and the Alan & Tatyana Forman JELC Preschool.
3: Celebrate Community and Tradition
Both events are free and open to the public, with no synagogue affiliation required. Hot latkes and donuts will be served at the Menorah event. RSVPs are requested for the parade and lighting at chabadjewishlife.org/light or by calling (516) 833-3057.
