Tuesday marks the inaugural run of “Chanukah on the Delaware,” the 6 p.m. nightly lighting of menorah candles from Dec. 16-23 on the banks of the Delaware River.
The first-year event celebrates the diversity and unity of New Hope and Lambertville as a community, say organizers. Each nightly event consists of a short historical introduction to the Chanukah holiday, blessings over the candles as they’re lit, and a brief-sing-along with complimentary refreshments, dreidels and ‘gelt’ for the children.
It all takes place in the small park with the large white sculpture on the New Hope side of the New Hope-Lambertville Free Bridge (across from Starbucks). “The bridge serves as a metaphor for the bridges we’re building and strengthening between our towns and faiths,” say organizers. Everyone is invited to attend they say, and guest rabbis from neighboring communities and musicians are being scheduled for each night.
Why light menorah candles? “Because the world can always use some extra light and love,” say event planners.
Chanukah on the Delaware is sponsored by New Hope Free Press thanks to the generosity of Jamie Hollander Gourmet Foods, Giant Food New Hope, Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, J. Frydman and the invaluable assistance of New Hope Public Works, the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission, and Kehilat Hanihar. Write to info.NewHopePA@gmail.com for more info on getting involved.
Thanks to the New Hope Free Press for coordinating!
thank you carl, you’re very kind and it was great seeing you there…here’s to the start of a great tradition…