Plenty of events lined up for Hanukkah

Today marks the first day of Hanukkah, and the Jewish community in the Okanagan has many events lined up for the upcoming week.

“Hanukkah is very important in the sense that Jewish history is really captured in the story of Hanukkah,” said Rabbi Shmuly Hecht, with the Chabad Okanagan Centre for Jewish Life and Learning.

“A small group of Maccabees were able to overcome the oppression of the large Greek army. Hanukkah reminds us it’s not about numbers, it’s about making a difference in the world and bringing light into the world.”

Tonight, there will be a Hanukkah party in Vernon at Little House Wedding and Event Centre from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

On Sunday, there will be a Hanukkah party and menorah lighting in Stuart Park in Kelowna from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

On Monday, there will be a Hanukkah party and menorah lighting in Osoyoos at the Legion, 8310 78 Ave., from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

On Tuesday, there will be a Hanukkah party in Penticton at Lorraine’s Cafe, 218 Martin St., from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

On Wednesday, there will be a Hanukkah bowling night at Lake City Bowl in Kelowna, 2789 Hwy 97 N from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

On Thursday, there will be a Hanukkah party and Menorah lighting in Salmon Arm at Piccadilly Mall, from 4:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

On Friday, members of the Jewish community will go to Kelowna General Hospital to distribute menorahs and traditional Hanukkah food to patients and staff at noon.