Hanukkah activities across R.I.

While much of our lives will be paused in the coming weeks, Hanukkah is a reminder that the Jewish community is strong and resilient, despite often trying circumstances. The candles we light on each night of Hanukkah are a reminder of our miraculous ability to carry on and stay kindled with the resources at hand.

Though many gatherings will look different this year, there are still many ways to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Below is a resource for virtual and/or COVID-19-safe Hanukkah activities hosted by synagogues and congregations in the greater Rhode Island area.

For more events and updates to these listings, check the calendar at JewishRhody.org and your synagogue’s website. 

Events subject to change due to COVID-19 government restrictions.

Who: Temple Beth-El, Providence

What: Hanukkah Sing Along

When: Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m.

Where: Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83215508772 (Passcode: call Temple Beth-El office; members, check your email)

Who: Temple Beth-El, Providence

What: Outdoor Candle Lighting, a Temple Beth-El tradition on the eight nights of Hanukkah.

When: Thursday, Dec. 10-Thursday, Dec. 17, at 5 p.m.

Where: Zoom or Facebook Live. Zoom link: HTTPS://US02WEB.ZOOM.US/J/84644420488 (Passcode: call Temple Beth-El office; members, check your email), or, for Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/TempleBethEl

Who: Temple Beth-El, BUNS Bakery, Providence

What: Drive through to pick up your rugelach for the holidays. Place your order in advance: call 401-275-0682 or email vmessina@wingatesrc.com

When: Preorder by Dec. 4, pick up on Friday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-noon.

Where: Wingate Residences on the East Side, 1 Butler Ave., Providence, RI 02906

Who: Temple Sinai, Cranston

What: “8 Nights of Zoomunity Menorah Lighting”; eight nights of Hanukkah candle-lighting on Zoom, and more!

When: Thursday, Dec. 10-Thursday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m.

Where: Zoom information at templesinairi.org or call Dottie in the temple office at 401-942-8350

Who: Chabad of West Bay, Chabad of Providence, Chabad of Northern R.I.

What: Car Menorah Parade to Celebrate 2020 Hanukkah Season, featuring the first menorah-topped car to parade through Rhode Island. Participants will gather at their closest participating Chabad center and then meet up in Providence. The event will culminate with the lighting of a giant Hanukkah menorah on the grounds of the State House, a ceremony honoring first responders and essential workers, and a live juggling performance. All participants must remain in their vehicles.

When: Sunday, Dec. 13, 4:30 p.m.

Where: For more details and to reserve your spot and menorah, contact your local Chabad:

Providence, 401-273-7238; Warwick, 401-884-7888; Lincoln, 401-499-2574

Who: United Brothers Synagogue, Bristol

What: Hanukkah Service

When: Friday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.

Where: For online link, email ubsbristol@gmail.com; congregation members will get a link in their email

Who: Project Shoresh, Providence

What: Community Hanukkah Celebration: Delicacies and Inspiration with Rabbi Tzvi Gluckin

When: Sunday, Dec. 13, 8-9 p.m.

Where: Register for the online event at https://form.jotform.com/203173541040138

Who: Temple Emanu-El, Providence

What: Hanukkah Lights & Laughs: Virtual Hanukkah Celebration. Join us on Zoom as we light the candles, sing Hanukkah songs, hear an update about our capital campaign, and laugh with hilarious and nationally recognized Jewish comedians.

When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 8 p.m.

Where: RSVP to register and receive a link, www.teprov.org

Who: Temple Habonim, Barrington

What: The Bible Players: Celebrate Hanukkah with a community candle-lighting and interactive family program

When: Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 6:15 p.m.

Where: Register on Zoom at https://bit.ly/3q8k84c

Who: Hadassah Rhode Island

What: Hadassah Celebrates Hanukkah: Virtual Celebration of The Festival of Lights

When: Monday, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m.

Where: To register, RSVP to the Hadassah Rhode Island email: chapri@hadassah.org, or call 463-3636 to receive the Zoom link or a dial-in number.