Rabbi Baruch Hertz hosts Menorah lighting at Chabad of West Lakeview in Lincoln Square to celebrate the 4th night of Hanukkah

CHICAGO (WLS) — Many members of the Jewish community on the North Side gathered for the fourth night of Hanukkah on Saturday, also marking the anticipated opening of a Jewish center in Lincoln Square.

Giddings Plaza in Lincoln Square was brimming with tradition and song as Rabbi Baruch Hertz from Chabad of West Lakeview led the attendees in lighting the menorah on the fourth night of Hanukkah.

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“We aim to introduce this celebration to the community, which symbolizes diversity, unity, family, and inclusivity, gathering people from various backgrounds and cultures to promote positivity and encourage good deeds,” explained Rabbi Hertz.

The event was spearheaded by Rabbi Hertz to celebrate Hanukkah across the city’s North Side.

The first menorah lighting happened in the West Lakeview neighborhood on Wednesday.

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“It just brings a sense of self, and you just want to think about what’s going on in the world and how best you can help, and in the end, that’s all we want,” Lincoln Square resident Bernadette Markley Byrne said.

And as always, the tradition brought out Chicago firefighters, who threw chocolate coins to children below.

“And, we drop giant gelt and parachutes and money, and create excitement for the children, excitement for the adults, and it’s part of the message of being there for the community, Rabbi Hertz said.