The City of Myrtle Beach will celebrate the Holiday season with a Menorah lighting ceremony tomorrow.

The event takes place on the plaza in front of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, 2101 North Oak Street, and all are invited to attend! 

Can’t make the event on Sunday evening?  The annual Festival of Lights program at Chapin Memorial Library is 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 12, 400 14th Avenue North, and admission is free. 

Attendees learn about the Jewish holiday and enjoy traditional Hanukkah snacks, songs, games and the lighting of the Menorah.  Hosted by local educator Rayna Shoihat, registration is not required and all belief systems are welcome at this family-friendly event! 

WHAT IS THE MENORAH? – Menorah lighting ceremony

The Menorah is a traditional Jewish symbol and an important part of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. It is a candelabrum with nine branches, typically made of gold or silver. The eight branches represent the eight nights that the Hanukkah candles are lit, while the ninth branch, usually placed higher or lower than the others, holds the “shamash” candle, which is used to light the other candles.

During Hanukkah, one candle is lit each night, starting from right to left, using the shamash to kindle the flames. This ritual commemorates the miracle of the oil in the ancient Jewish temple in Jerusalem, where a small amount of oil miraculously burned for eight days, despite there being only enough oil for one day.

The Menorah is often displayed prominently in windows during Hanukkah as a way to share the joy and celebration of the holiday with others. It is also a symbol of light, hope, and freedom.

A Menorah lighting ceremony is held, during Hanukah, in most midsized cities along the east coast of the U.S.A.