One menorah at a time is being lit, including this big menorah covered with corn husks to display Nebraska pride. People like Sasha Denenberg filled Stinson Park for this annual Hanukkah kickoff.
“It’s amazing to be out here and come together,” Denenberg added.
From fried dishes like latkes to music, there is something for everyone to celebrate what it means to be Jewish.
“All these holidays, they add so much to Omaha and the Jewish community, and I’m just excited to spread that light,” Denenberg told me.
According to Chabad of Nebraska, this is one of the most special events the organization hosts each year. Hanukkah symbolizes dedication and shedding light on the darkness.
“It’s about fighting evil with goodness, positivity, and joy,” explained Shani Katzman of Chabad of Nebraska.
That joy could be observed across the Jewish community on Wednesday. Members of Beth El Synagogue in west Omaha were giving baked and prepared goodies to folks working on Christmas Day.
The Kutlers were among dozens of other families who took part. They stated they’d been doing this for four years, aiming to bring holiday cheer.
“It is always lovely. “Everyone is very grateful,” stated Adam Kutler. “I think they’re happy to know that people are just thinking of them when they’re at work and people are taking some time to thank them for their jobs.”
The Kutlers claimed it will be a tradition for many years to come.
“We really enjoy doing this,” Abigail Kutler remarked. “Every year when we talk to the boys about what they want to do today, they always say they want to help out with this tradition.”