Join 500+ Jews of Boulder County as they light the Hanukkah Menorah in unison!

BOULDER, November 19, 2020 – For over 20 years, the Boulder Jewish community has gathered on Pearl Street Mall for the annual Menorah lighting featuring the biggest Hanukkah menorah in the city. Traditionally known as “Hanukkah on Pearl Street,” this year it will be broadcast live over Zoom.

In normal, non-COVID-affected years, hundreds have braved the icy weather to partake in this public display of religious pride. This year due to safety precautions, this monumental event will take place virtually; on phones, tablets, and laptops. For the first time in the history of Boulder County, hundreds of Jews will kindle the menorah at the same time over Zoom. In solidarity, in unity — bringing the light of Hanukkah into their own homes and lives.

“The message of Hanukkah is the message of light. The nature of light is that it is always victorious over darkness. A small amount of light dispels a lot of darkness. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.” said Rabbi Pesach Scheiner, co-founder of Boulder County Center for Judaism. 

Joining in the festivities will be well known Colorado native Steve Brodsky, broadcasting his sing-along Hanukkah program from his home. For over 10 years, Steve has braved different weather temperaments during this annual event, providing musical entertainment for the Boulder County public menorah lighting. 

The chef of the evening is Josh Raderman, who is well known for making over 600 latkes yearly for hungry event-goers. This time, Josh will be cooking from his home kitchen, instructing us how to make delicious, brag-to-your-friend latkes along with him. Join Chef Josh and discover his Latke making secrets!

All the way from the East coast, Akiva Balter, founder of Gam Zoom Litova, will be masterfully hosting this historic Zoom session.

The entire community is invited to partake in this virtual Menorah lighting happening Monday, December 10th at 5:30 pm! 

Sign up for the Zoom session before December 4th so that you can receive your very own Chanukah-in-the-box to use for the event. All boxes have been graciously sponsored and will provide multiple holiday items and instructions. There will also be a special drawing for children who participate! 

This exciting event is hosted by the Boulder County Center for Judaism and sponsored by Andy and Audrey Franklin, the Boulder JCC,  Boulder Jewish News, Caroline Bleicher of Re/MAX of Boulder, Hazel’s, JEWISHcolorado, the Oreg Foundation, and Rhonda and Bruce Wildman, for whose support we are enormously grateful.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, call 303-494-1638 or email BoulderJudaism@gmail.com.