Tuesday, May 13, 2025
With Hanukkah on the horizon, the Chabad Hebrew School of Merrick, Bellmore, and Wantagh is gearing up to host its Hanukkah Block Party. This event, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 8, and Wednesday, Dec. 11, invites Jewish children enrolled in Chabad Hebrew School to explore the traditions and themes of Hanukkah through hands-on, engaging activities.
At Chabad Hebrew School, learning about Judaism goes beyond the classroom and the Hanukkah Block Party offers a dynamic way for children to connect with their heritage while celebrating the holiday in a festive and meaningful setting.
The event includes a variety of activities designed to blend holiday fun with Jewish traditions. Children will participate in the Dreidel Dash, a fast-paced twist on the classic dreidel game, and enjoy Hanukkah treat tasting, which highlights the holiday’s traditional flavors. Students will also engage in Improv-Style Reporting, becoming creative “news anchors” as they retell the story of Hanukkah in their own words, and work on crafting LED sculptures, glowing decorations that symbolize the light and miracles of the holiday.
“These activities aren’t just fun — they’re designed to teach important lessons about Jewish identity and the enduring themes of Hanukkah, such as Persumei Nisa, or spreading the miracle of the holiday,” Rabbi Shimon and Chanie Kramer, directors of the Chabad Center, said in a news release detailing the upcoming event.
“This event highlights what makes our Hebrew School special,” Rabbi Kramer said. “We don’t just teach about Judaism—we bring it to life. The Hanukkah Block Party is a celebration of Jewish pride and resilience, giving our students the opportunity to truly connect with their heritage.”
This year’s event will also feature the hashtag ShareTheLight initiative, encouraging children to share the spirit of Hanukkah with their neighbors by proudly displaying their LED crafts in their windows.
“Hanukkah reminds us that no matter the challenges we face, our light will always shine brighter,” Kramer said.
The Hanukkah Block Party will take place at Chabad of Merrick, Bellmore, and Wantagh. Jewish children ages 5 to 11 enrolled in the Hebrew School are invited to attend on either Dec. 8 or Dec. 11. Families can register by visit ChabadJewishLife.org/CHS or by calling (516) 833-3057 ext. 106.
Hanukkah excitement continues later this month, when the holiday begins on Dec. 15. There will be a community-wide celebration open to all, featuring the Grand Menorah Lighting and a special show for the holiday. Festivities begin at 5 p.m., outside of the Chabad’s Hewlett Avenue headquarters in Merrick.
Those parading will head towards the Merrick Gazebo around 5:15 p.m., where a Grand Menorah will be lit for the holiday. Families can plan to enjoy a Chinese dinner, Hanukkah crafts, a movie and more.
For more on what to expect and to register for the event later this month, visit ChabadJewishLife.org/Light.
