- December 25, 2024
- 2:03 pm
- Ukraine
Hanukkah 2024 in Ukraine is not just a celebration of light, but also a show of resilience in the face of Russian aggression.
Despite constant Russian terrorist attacks, destruction and casualties, the country's Jewish communities continue to prepare for this bright holiday, joining forces with the Ukrainian people.
Every lit Hanukkah candle in Ukraine today is a challenge to Putin’s terrorist darkness.
Hanukkah menorahs have already been installed in Kyiv, Lvov, Odessa, Dnepr, Chernivtsi, Kamensky and other cities. Despite threats of shelling, ceremonial events are held that bring together Jewish communities and everyone who wants to preserve traditions.
“Russian terror is trying to destroy the light of our traditions.
But we remain united. Ukraine and Israel know the value of peace and will never give up.»
Lviv: menorah on the site of the “Golden Rose”
On December 23, 2024, in Lviv, on the site of the ruins of the legendary Golden Rose synagogue, the Hanukkah menorah was lit for the first time in 80 years. This gesture became a symbol of the revival of Jewish traditions in a city that Russian propaganda baselessly calls “anti-Semitic.”
Quote:
“The installation of a menorah on the site of the Golden Rose is not only a tribute to Jewish heritage, but also an act of cultural unity of the peoples of Ukraine,” – said a representative of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine.
The menorah in Lviv has become a symbol of the fact that culture and traditions are stronger than war.
Main cities celebrating Hanukkah
| City | Celebration place | Date and time | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyiv | Maidan of Independence | December 25, 17:00 | The largest Hanukkiah in Europe. |
| Lviv | Ruins of the Golden Rose Synagogue | December 23 | The first menorah in 80 years on this site. |
| Odessa | Primorsky Boulevard | December 25, 15:30 | A holiday for all members of the community. |
| Dnieper | Cultural Center “Menorah” | During the 8 days of Hanukkah | Events and candle lighting. |
| Kamenskoye | Various areas of the city | December 25 | There are 8 Hanukkiahs installed throughout the city. |
In Kyiv, on Independence Square, the largest menorah in Europe has been installed. Its lighting ceremony, scheduled for December 25, will mark the beginning of an 8-day holiday that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Russian propaganda versus reality
Russian aggression does not stop even on holidays. On December 25, 2025, Russian troops fired more than 70 missiles at civilian targets in Ukraine, causing damage to civilians and energy infrastructure.
Embassy of Ukraine in Israel stated:
“This year, December 25 is a special day that unites two wonderful traditions – Christmas and Hanukkah.
On this day, the light of candles lit on the menorah and the shine of Christmas garlands will create an incredible atmosphere of warmth and unity.
This is a time when we remember the power of faith, love and family traditions. This is an opportunity to unite at one table, say words of gratitude, and give joy and a spark of hope to those around you.
This day reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is light to lead us forward. Let the Hanukkah candles and the star on the Christmas tree become a symbol of unity and hope for peace and goodness for every family.
The light of these holidays belongs to everyone – let it illuminate our hearts, warm our souls and unite us in love.
Merry Christmas and Hanukkah!”
Light vs. Dark: The Symbol of Hanukkah
Every lit Chanukah candle in Ukraine today is a challenge to darkness. In Odessa, Kamensky and Chernivtsi, despite the threats, ceremonial events are being held that bring together Jewish communities and everyone who wants to preserve traditions.
On the website NAnews – Israel News you can learn more about the life of Jewish communities in Ukraine and their struggle to preserve traditions in times of war.
Jewish community and Ukrainian people: unity in the face of aggression
Ukraine and Israel are countries that know what it means to fight for their identity and freedom. Today, the Jewish communities of Ukraine demonstrate that light can defeat any darkness, and unity is the key to survival.
Hanukkah 2024 is more than a holiday. This is a symbol of faith in the victory of good over evil. As one of the participants in the events in Lviv said:
“We will keep the lights on no matter what. This is our response to aggression.”
On NAnews – Israel News read more materials about the interaction between Israel and Ukraine, as well as how Jewish traditions are preserved even in the most difficult conditions.
Ukraine and Israel will win! Happy Hanukkah!
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