Updated for 2024
When is Hanukkah?
This year, Hanukkah begins on December 25, 2024 and ends on January 2, 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 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
Image Courtesy National Menorah Facebook
December 25, 2024 at 4:00pm
White House Ellipse
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!
Chanukah Celebration - City of Fairfax
December 25, 2024 at 5:30pm
Old Town Fairfax Square
Bring your menorah and candles to illuminate the room during the Chanukah celebration at Old Town Fairfax. Join the festivities on December 25 to commemorate the first day of Chanukah! Featuring epic entertainment, hot latkes and donuts, crafts & games, a Gelt drop, and a hot cocoa bar.
Chanukah Celebration at Fair Oaks Mall
December 26, 2024 at 5:30pm
Fair Oaks Mall
For the first time ever, Fair Oaks Mall will host a grand menorah lighting open to everyone! Head to Fair Oaks Mall not just for the free latkes and donuts but also to catch live performances and have a chance to snag some Chanukah swag! After all, it is located in a mall, so a little shopping is encouraged.
Chanukah Festival - Old Town Alexandria
December 26, 2024 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.
Light Up Arlington - Clarendon Menorah Lighting
December 29, 2024 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 The Boro
December 30, 2024 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.
Hanukkah at the J: Community Menorah Lighting
Courtesy of Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia's Facebook
December 30, 2024 at 5:30 PM
Pozez Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia
Bring the whole family to a memorable sixth night of Hanukkah with the whole community. Bring your festive spirit to light the candles, sing songs, provide entertainment, spin the dreidel, and more! This is one Hanukkah event you won't want to miss.
Community Menorah Lighting at Mosaic District
TBD
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!
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!
