Hanukkah Celebrations in Long Beach
Long Beach will shine bright this season with a variety of Hanukkah celebrations for all ages. Adults can unwind with kosher bites and craft brews, while families will find festive gatherings filled with performances, crafts, storytelling and sweet treats.
From community menorah-lightings to lively dinners complete with bounce-house fun, these events bring neighbors together to share in the warmth, joy and enduring traditions of the Festival of Lights.
HANUKKAH CELEBRATION, Dec. 5
The Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W Broadway) hosts a special Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 5 at 3 PM with Cantor Kelly Cooper from Temple Israel. Families gather for a storytelling circle on the history of Hanukkah, sing joyful songs and dive into hands-on crafts. The event is made even sweeter with delicious jelly-filled donuts, offering a warm, communal moment of tradition, learning and fun.
GIANT MENORAH LIGHTING
The 2nd & PCH (6480 Pacific Coast Hwy) shopping center serves as the welcoming, family-friendly gathering spot as Shul by the Shore and Temple Israel host this annual Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 6 at 4 PM. There will be live performances, crafts, festive music and a real feeling of community. The highlight of the evening, of course, is the lighting of the grand menorah on the central staircase. Hundreds of neighbors will join together to kindle lights, symbolizing unity, tradition and the joy of the Festival of Lights.
CHANUKAH HAPPY HOUR, Dec. 7
For a relaxed, laid-back, grown-up celebration, head to the Chanukah Happy Hour at Long Beach Beer Lab (518 W Willow St), Dec. 7 at 6 PM. Organized by Jewish Long Beach, this adults-only (21+) event offers kosher bites, craft beers, and friendly company. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the Festival of Lights with friends in a casual, convivial space; raising a glass amidst the glow of community.
HANUKKAH STORYTIME
On two dates, Dec. 12 and 13, the Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way) will present Hanukkah storytelling at 2 and 3 PM. Ms. Maureen returns to share with Aquarium visitors about Hanukkah’s origins and traditions through songs, games and engaging stories. This festive program is included with Aquarium admission.
CHANUKAH FAMILY DINNER, Dec. 10
The Alpert Jewish Community Center (3801 E Willow St) invites families to a joyous Chanukah Latke Bar Dinner, Dec. 10 at 5 PM. The event features a candlelighting, then guests will enjoy a buffet loaded with latkes and a kosher-style pizza dinner with salad. Be sure to stop by the sufganiyot filling station for a delicious sweet treat. For the kids, there will be a glow dance party and bounce house. This festive, participatory evening is designed to bring generations together through food, creativity and light.