NORTHAMPTON — A celebration of Hanukkah that will include the lighting of a giant laser menorah and a light show takes place at Look Park’s Pine Theater Saturday evening.
The Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, joined by six area Jewish organizations, is putting on the event that is being called the first-ever Hanukkah Festival of (Laser) Light.
The festival begins at 6:30 p.m., with a focus on the concept of bringing the light of Hanukkah to the holiday season. Hanukkah started on the evening of Nov. 28 and concludes at sundown on Monday.
Nora Gorenstein, interim executive director of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, said her organization is committed to having an accessible event for people of all faiths, ages and identities to connect and engage with the Jewish community. More than 400 people are already expected to attend the event.
“This holiday season is an opportunity to come together in hope and joy to celebrate our strength as a unique, diverse western Massachusetts community in partnership with our friends and neighbors,” Gorenstein said.
During COVID-19 times, Gorenstein said events of this scale have not been possible, but being outdoors should make it safe. Other outdoor events, such as lighting menorahs in communities, have been held, even as parties have diminished. Last year the Jewish Federation came together with 18 other Jewish organizations to distribute a Hannukah activity kit to more than 300 families.
“This year we’re getting more familiar with how to maneuver in this reality,” Gorenstein said. “It’s a nice time to enjoy different aspects of the holiday together and to take part in community events.”
Local government officials, including state Sen. Eric P. Lesser, and Jewish community leaders are expected to be on hand.
The festival commences with a Havdalah, to celebrate the end of the Sabbath and the beginning of the new week, and a Hanukkah sing-along with local musician and educator Felicia Sloin.
Before the laser light show, there will be a discussion of the science behind modern lights and the retelling of the Hanukkah story. Gorenstein said this will include an explanation of the types of light discovered through science and the connection of light to Hanukkah. People can bring flashlights or use their cellphone lights to participate.
In addition to the Hanukkah event, attendees can experience Look Park’s Winter Wonderland Light display. “We want people to enjoy the park and the general display,” Gorenstein said.
People who come are reminded that the event is outdoors and they should dress warmly and bring a picnic blanket and camping chairs or lawn chairs.
To register for this Hanukkah Festival of (Laser) Light and get a free, holiday-themed gift bag, so long as supplies last, go to https://events.idonate.com/hanukkah2021.
Funding for the event comes from the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, while sponsors include the Jewish Community of Amherst, Congregation B’nai Israel in Northampton and Lander Grinspoon Academy, both in Northampton, Camp Laurelwood in Madison, Connecticut, Beit Ahavah in Florence and the Springfield Jewish Community Center/PJ Library.
