Celebrating Hanukkah across the Cincinnati community

Photo Credit: Robert White

Submitted by Mayerson JCC

As the weather gets colder and Festival of Lights approaches, the Cincinnati community is preparing to celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah with joy, light, and togetherness, offering a chance to bond with friends, enjoy delicious foods, and take part in festive activities. Three exciting upcoming events include Israeli Hanukkah, Latkapalooza, and Hanukkah at Fountain Square, and exemplify how to celebrate in unique and vibrant ways.

Join the community, Tzach Shmuely, the local Shaliach, the Chaverim M’Israel, and Israeli neighbors on December 19 at the Mayerson JCC for a special Israeli Hannukah extravaganza, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. This event is hosted by the Jewish Federation in partnership with the JCC. Participants will have the chance to enjoy fun games and activities for all ages, as well as decorate sufganiyot. This community-focused celebration will allow attendees to connect with one another, share the joy of the holiday, and bring more light into the world. 

For those in the 21-45 age group, Latkapalooza is an unforgettable way to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah. This highly anticipated event is the biggest young adult celebration of the year and always takes place on December 24, hosted by the Mayerson JCC and Jewish Federation. It offers an exciting atmosphere where you can connect with old friends and meet new ones while celebrating in style. The event also offers plenty of food, entertainment, including a DJ, and activities that keep the energy high throughout the night.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Latkapalooza attendee, the celebration promises a fun-filled evening with dancing and plenty of laughter. It’s the perfect way for young adults to experience the warmth of the holiday season, meet new people, and keep the party going long after the menorah is lit.  

For families looking to celebrate Hanukkah in the heart of Cincinnati, Hannukah at Fountain Square is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s happening this year just after Hanukkah, on January 8 and is done in partnership with the JCC and Jewish Federation. Attendees can lace up their skates, take to the rink, and join Dreidel Man for a fun time on the ice! 

Whether you’re attending a community celebration to decorate sufganiyot and enjoy music, joining young adults for a night of Latkas and dancing, or spending time with your family at a fun-filled event like Hanukkah at Fountain Square, these festivities remind us all of the joy, resilience, and light that Hanukkah brings into our lives. Events like Israeli Hanukkah, Latkapalooza, and Hanukkah at Fountain Square provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate in a variety of ways, each offering a unique experience that reflects the diversity of Jewish culture and the universal themes of hope and 

togetherness.