Northeast Ohio is home to nearly 80,000 Jewish residents, some of whom were at Thursday’s event to not only celebrate, but also reflect.
Downtown Cleveland was vibrant on Thursday night as the Jewish community gathered in Public Square to observe the second night of Hanukkah, a festival also known as the “Festival of Lights.”
The main attraction of the event was a 13-foot-tall menorah, serving as a beacon of hope, resilience, and unity. The ambiance was filled with Jewish music as many participants came together to light the second candle, signifying the progression of the eight-day holiday.
For Edy Madrid and his family, this commemoration held a deep significance. Originally hailing from Honduras, they made the move to Northeast Ohio in January to become part of a more extensive Jewish community.
“We have been celebrating all the Jewish festivals and living a Torah life, but in our country, there’s no Jewish community,” Madrid said. “So for us, this is a big treat. I mean, we’re enjoying it so much.”
Hanukkah is traditionally celebrated with family, but for those without close relatives nearby, events like this bring a sense of togetherness.
“Hanukkah, it means family,” one woman said. “It’s a family holiday, and not having one, this is special.”
Northeast Ohio is home to nearly 80,000 Jewish residents, some of whom were at the event to not only celebrate, but also reflect.
For many, the lighting of the menorah carried an additional layer of significance, as the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East weigh heavily on them.
“Hanukkah right now, and thinking about light, is really reminding me of the (Israeli) hostages in Gaza,” one attendee shared, “and just coming together as a community to pray for their safe return and to pray for an end to all war.”
As the Festival of Lights continues, the Jewish community remains hopeful for brighter days ahead.
