Updated for 2025
When is Hanukkah?
This year, Hanukkah begins on December 14, 2025 and ends on December 22, 2025. And you'll find plenty of events celebrating the holiday in Fairfax County and throughout the Capital Region. For many English speakers (such as myself), you might find yourself a bit confused over the spelling of this holiday's name. Is it Hanukkah or Chanukah? The answer (thank you, Google) is that both are considered correct, though Hanukkah is the most widely used spelling, while Chanukah is more traditional.
Hanukkah Events & Celebrations
To honor this year's Hanukkah celebration, we've curated some fun events that symbolize this celebration. So without further ado, check out the events below...after you listen to perhaps the most recognized Hanukkah (Chanukah) song of the last quarter-century.
National Menorah Lighting
December 14, 2025
White House Ellipse at 3:30pm
Perhaps the world's most prominent public Chanukah program is the annual lighting ceremony of the National Chanukah Menorah on the Ellipse, just across from the White House in Washington, DC. The lighting of this magnificent menorah – the world’s largest – is a free event with limited seating and can be seen via television newscasts, internet feeds, and other media by tens of millions across the nation and around the world. This event will commence with a musical performance by a talented Jewish artist, followed by special guests, and to end the night – the grand lighting and celebration. Order your tickets here to join the excitement!
Family-Friendly Chanukah Festival - Falls Church
December 14, 2025 at 3:30pm
Temple Rodef Shalom
Gather your family together for Temple Rodef Shalom's Chanukah celebration. There will be games for all ages, and plenty of time to enjoy the warm glow of being with your temple family. This is a family-oriented celebration featuring fun for children. Find more information on their website and take a look at all the Chanukah events they offer to celebrate!
Chanukah On Ice - Fairfax
December 14, 2025 at 5:00pm
Fairfax Ice Arena
Chabad Lubavitch of Northern Virginia presents Chanukah on Ice. This fun ice skating event is perfect for the whole family. It features an exclusive Chabad skate, menorah lighting, latkes, hot chocolate, decorating a tie-dye donut, and a door prize for all! Learn more about this ice-tastic event!
Chanukah Festival - Old Town Alexandria
December 15, 2025 at 6:00pm
The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum
Come and join the warmth and joy of Chanukah at the Grand Chanukah Menorah Lighting in Old Town Alexandria, which will feature a towering 6-foot Menorah. Revel in the festivities with delectable hot Potato Latkes, cozy Hot Cocoa, Donuts, Chocolate Gelt, and Dreidels for everyone. Admission is free, but registration is required to ensure you don't miss out on this memorable celebration.
Chanukah Celebration at The Boro
December 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM
The Boro Tysons
All guests are welcome to join the Chanukah festivities in collaboration with Chabad Tysons Jewish Center. This event will feature a Menorah lighting, delicious holiday treats, and lively festive music! Located in the Boro Upper Promenade, next to Circa and LOOK Dine-in Cinemas.
Lights, Candles, Action! Hanukkah at the Pozez JCC
December 15, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Pozez Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia
Bring the whole family to a memorable night of Hanukkah with the community. Bring your festive spirit to light the candles, sing songs, enjoy entertainment, and more! This is one Hanukkah event you won't want to miss.
Light Up Arlington - Clarendon Menorah Lighting
December 16, 2025 at 6pm
Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
Come out for the Clarendon Menorah Lighting and Community Celebration as you experience the festival of lights. There will be a lighting of a giant 9-foot Menorah, lively music, hot Potato Latkes (pre-packaged), Hot Cocoa, Donuts, Chocolate Gelt, and Dreidels for all to play. Registration will close when the maximum capacity is reached during the free ticket registration. Reserve your spot to attend this free event.
Hanukkah Glow and Dance Party at Mosaic
December 17, 2025 at 5:30 pm
Mosaic District
It’s Chanukah time in the Mosaic District – join in as the district basks in the glow of colorful lights (glow sticks) and cheer (singing and dancing) of Hanukkah! Register here.
Stay tuned for more events, as we will be adding to this list as more are announced. Which event will you be attending? Share your holiday adventures with us using #FXVA or @VisitFairfax!
