Annual Hanukkah celebration, 'Menorah in the D', returns to downtown Detroit

Marina Johnson, Detroit Free Press
·2 min read
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The Detroit community will be celebrating the Jewish holiday Hanukkah, commonly known as the festival of lights, with a 13th annual event in the heart of the city.

The 2023 annual “Menorah in the D” is returning Thursday afternoon at Campus Martius, with both an in-person and online celebration. According to a news release, the menorah is 26 feet tall and made of glass and steel.

Downtown Detroit celebrates the beginning of Hanukkah with 'Menorah in the D' event
Downtown Detroit celebrates the beginning of Hanukkah with 'Menorah in the D' event

A menorah is typically lit to signal the start of the eight days of Hanukkah, according to Dartmouth College. In Hebrew, the word means "lamp." The menorah used for Hanukkah is more accurately called a Hanukkiyah, where one additional candle or oil wick is lit each evening, for each of the eight days of the holiday. Historically, a menorah had seven branches, symbolizing each day of creation.

According to a release, Hanukkah is intended to bring a "message of light and warmth just in time for the cold winter months." Furthermore, it's a reminder that "life's darkest moments and greatest challenges can be brightened with steadfast faith and determination."

Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, Vice President of Chabad Lubavitch of Michigan, said the event is a unique way to unite the metro Detroit Jewish community in their shared traditions.

“This Chanukah we will stand with Jews around the world and state that darkness doesn’t stand a chance," he said. “Whether you’re live or online, this has become an event where the entire Jewish community comes together and celebrates our spirit and message of Judaism in a very special and unique way."

Downtown Detroit celebrates the beginning of Hanukkah with 'Menorah in the D' event
Downtown Detroit celebrates the beginning of Hanukkah with 'Menorah in the D' event

The schedule, according to the website, is as follows:

  • Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

  • The event and broadcast begin at 5 p.m.

  • The Menorah lighting ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m.

The event will also feature a family-friendly celebration that’s free and open to the public, featuring:

  • Strolling entertainers

  • Complimentary hot soups, snacks, treats and cider

  • A kosher food truck

  • Giveaways and photo ops

  • Crafts, games and more

An RSVP for the event is preferred. To learn more, click here.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Campus Martius welcomes return of 'Menorah in the D' Hanukkah fest