Wednesday Night Lights

Little Neck residents braved the elements and came together Wednesday evening to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah in front of Mazurs Market in Little Neck. 

The festive crowd, led by Rabbi Eli Shifrin of Chabad of Little Neck, snacked on hot potato latkes and donuts, drank warm apple cider, danced around holding hands, sang traditional holiday songs and, of course, lit the first candle on the Grand Menorah.

"On this first night of Hanukkah, we celebrate two miracles," Shifrin said. "The first being the liberation of the ancient Israelites from the Syrian-Greek Empire, and the second being the 'Miracle of Light.'"

Shifrin went on to explain that the 'Festival of Lights' celebrates when the ancient Maccabees lit the candles inside of the temple with oil that should have only lasted them one night, but ended up lasting for eight.

However, for attendee Maurice Sherman of Little Neck, Hanukkah meant more than just the "Miracle of Light."

"Tonight is a celebration of light, and of life… a truly happy celebration, when we share some holiday cheer as a community, as we eat hot potato latkes and donuts and drink warm apple cider together," Sherman said.

Mel Mendel, who was also glad to share in  the occasion with his neighbors, had his own positive message.

"Enjoy life, and to make peace," Mendel said. "That's the spirit of Hanukkah."

And as he addressed the crowd, Shifrin also stressed the importance of giving during this holiday season.

"The Grand Menorah Lighting signifies the bringing of light during dark times, and on this day, we're all encouraged to perform acts of charity during this season of giving," he said.

Keeping in tune with the upbeat theme of the evening, participants in the Grand Lighting ceremony also enjoyed a little sideshow entertainment, courtesy of Adam Rinn, a fire eater, sword swallower and magician.

"It's great to be here," Rinn said. "Hanukkah is all about sharing holiday joy."