As the sun sets on December 9, 2025, the Jewish community in Chico prepares to celebrate one of its most cherished holidays—Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. This year, local rabbis are sharing their insights on the significance and traditions surrounding this historic celebration.
The Story Behind Hanukkah
Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following its desecration by the Syrian Greeks. According to tradition, the Jewish rebels known as the Maccabees fought valiantly to reclaim their sacred space. They found only enough oil to keep the eternal flame lit for one day, yet miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days. This miracle is central to the holiday’s meaning and observances.
Rabbi Lisa Rappaport of Congregation Beth Israel and Rabbi Mendy Zwiebel of the Chabad Jewish Center emphasize the multiple layers of miracles that Hanukkah represents. Rappaport identifies three key miracles: the lasting oil, the victory of a small group against a mighty opponent, and the restoration of the Temple itself. The name “Hanukkah” derives from the Hebrew word meaning “to dedicate,” reflecting the act of rededicating the Temple after removing pagan idols.
Understanding Holiday Traditions
While Hanukkah is often perceived as the most significant Jewish holiday due to its proximity to Christmas, both rabbis clarify that it is one of the less strict observances. As Zwiebel points out, Jewish holidays generally fall into two categories: those that require refraining from work and those where remembrance is key. Hanukkah allows participants to continue their daily activities while emphasizing the importance of lighting the menorah.
The menorah, which holds nine candles—one for each night plus an additional candle called the shamash—is a focal point of celebration. Each night, a new candle is added until all are lit by the end of the festival. Zwiebel notes that the message of Hanukkah resonates deeply, as “a little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness,” fostering family unity and warmth during the holiday season.
Public displays of the menorah are encouraged to “publicize the miracle.” Zwiebel stresses the importance of visibility, stating that ideally, menorahs should be placed in windows for others to see. Rappaport echoes this sentiment, highlighting the complexities of expressing Jewish identity in today’s world. She mentions a divide in the community, with some feeling a need to hide their Judaism due to rising antisemitism, while others believe it is crucial to stand proudly in their faith.
Festive Foods and Community Events
Hanukkah is also characterized by traditional foods, including latkes—grated potato pancakes—and sufganiyot, jelly-filled donuts. Both dishes are fried in oil, symbolizing the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. Additionally, the holiday features the giving of gelt, chocolate coins, to children. This custom teaches the importance of charity, a fundamental aspect of Jewish values.
Congregation Beth Israel will host its annual Hanukkah Party on December 21, 2025, at 15:00, featuring food, music, dancing, and games. Interested participants can register by calling 530-342-6146 or visiting their website at cbichico.org. The Chabad Jewish Center has a series of events planned, starting with a celebration at City Plaza at 16:00, which will include music, treats, ice skating, and a menorah lighting. A campus menorah lighting with Chico State President Steve Perez will take place at Trinity Commons on December 10 at 16:45.
For more information about events or to acquire menorahs and kosher candles from Chabad, individuals can text 530-848-3264.
Chico’s Jewish community is vibrant and engaged, with many members actively participating in various services and celebrations during this significant time of year.
