Updated for 2023
 

When is Hanukkah?

This year, Hanukkah begins on December 7, 2023 and ends on December 15, 2023. 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 put together 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

National Menorah
Image Courtesy National Menorah Facebook

December 7, 2023 at 3:00pm
White House Ellipse

Perhaps the most prominent public Chanukah program in the world 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, including the President and Vice President, and to end the night – the grand lighting and celebration. Order your tickets here to join the excitement!

 

Chanukah Festival - Old Town Alexandria

Chanukah Festival at Old Town Alexandria

December 7, 2023 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.

 

Menorah Lighting Ceremony - Town of Vienna

Town of Vienna Menorah Lighting Ceremony

December 10, 2023 at 5:00pm
Town of Vienna (
Town Green)

The entire community is welcome to join the Menorah-Lighting Ceremony taking place on Sunday, December 10th, at the Town Green. Additionally, an illuminated dreidel will be showcased for everyone to enjoy.

 

Chanukah Celebration - Fairfax

Chanukah Celebration in Fairfax

December 10, 2023 at 5:00pm
Olam Tikvah

Bring your menorah and candles to illuminate the room during the Chanukah celebration. Participate in the choir for a joyful rendition of Chanukah songs and engage in crafting activities to create memorable keepsakes. Enjoy a light nosh and witness the unveiling of the Machar and Kadima Chanukiah cake (and of course, enjoy its deliciousness).

 

Light Up Arlington - Clarendon Menorah Lighting

Light Up Arlington

December 10, 2023 at 5pm
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, (Pre-packaged) Chocolate Gelt, and Dreidels for all to play. Registration will close when maximum capacity is reached during the free ticket registration. Reserve your spot to attend this free event.

 

Chanukah Celebration at Springfield Town Center

Springfield Chanukah Celebration

December 10, 2023 at 4:30pm-6pm
Springfield Town Center

Join Chabad Lubavitch of Springfield-Burke for a grand Chanukah Celebration in Grand Court, on the Lower Level, on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 4:30 - 6 PM. Come enjoy the Menorah lighting, followed by entertainment, crafts, and light refreshments.

 

Chanukah Celebration at The Boro

The Boro Mural

December 11, 2023 at 5:00 PM
The Boro Tysons

All guests are welcome to join the Chanukah festivity 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 ShowPlace ICON Theatre.

 

Community Menorah Lighting at Mosaic District

Chanukah Celebration in Mosaic District

December 14, 2023 at 5pm-6:30pm
Mosaic District

It’s Chanukah time in the Mosaic District – and they’re bringing the celebration to all those who join as they light the candles, sing songs, provide entertainment, spin the dreidel, and more! This special event is done in conjunction with the JCC of Northern Virginia.


 

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!