The best Hanukkah events across the U.S.

When: Dec 14 at 6pm

Kick off the Festival of Lights in South Florida: Delray Beach—about an hour’s drive from Palm Beach—hosts an annual Chanukah Festival and Menorah Lighting. Held at the Amphitheatre at Old School Square, this event features a giant menorah lighting and plenty of mouthwatering treats like crispy latkes, cotton candy and powdered doughnuts—worth the trip on their own. Families will also find kid-friendly activities, including a bounce house, making it a festive evening for all ages.

When: Dec 14 at 2pm

This Hanukkah, head south to the Holy City for Hanukkah in the Square, which draws locals and travelers alike to Marion Square, a lush 10-acre oasis in the heart of the city. Bring your appetite: In addition to traditional Hanukkah fare like latkes and doughnuts, you can feast on pretzels, hot dogs, burgers and kettle corn. Or warm up with a piping-hot bowl of chicken soup while listening to live music. For little ones, there’s dedicated children’s entertainment and crafts.

When: Dec 14 at 3pm

Savannah goes all out for Hanukkah at this community-wide celebration, which takes place in the city’s most famous park. Fill up on a variety of food and drinks, ranging from soups and hot dogs to doughnuts and latkes, and take part in family-friendly activities like special holiday crafts. Shop for gifts at the on-site Hanukkah market or take keepsake photos in the photo booth. Kids and kids at heart will love the abundance of on-site fun, including balloon art, face painting and inflatables, plus plenty of prizes to go around.

When: Dec 13–21 at sundown 

New York City always goes big, so it’s no surprise the Big Apple is home to the world’s largest menorahs. Both Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn and Grand Army Plaza in Midtown Manhattan boast 32-foot-high, 4,000-pound steel menorahs. If you can only visit one, keep in mind that the Brooklyn lightings come with live music, hot latkes and gifts for children. Tip: Lightings take place at different times throughout the week, so check the schedule before you go.

When: Dec 7 at 11am

The 49th annual Hanukkah Bazaar & Food Festival takes place at Atlanta’s Or VeShalom synagogue the week before the official start of the holiday, leaving plenty of time to shop for gifts from local vendors right on site. When hunger calls, tuck into freshly prepared Mediterranean cuisine, seasonal pastries and delicacies like baklava. Between live entertainment, activities and raffle giveaways, there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy.

When: Dec 7 at 10am

Organized by the JCC Denver, Latkes and Lights is one of the city’s most delicious Hanukkah celebrations. Here, attendees can sample a variety of latkes from Denver restaurants and local cooks before voting on their favorite. (Last year, the spicy green chili latkes were the fan favorite.) While noshing, browse stunning handmade menorahs—then vote on those too—listen to live music and play festive games. Don’t miss the on-site Makers Mart, where local makers sell handmade items, from art and baked treats to gifts galore, ranging in price from $1 to $150.

When: Dec 14–21 at 5:30pm

About 35 miles north of Phoenix lies the serene—and aptly named—town of Carefree. Best known for its desert scenery and giant sundial, the destination also hosts an eight-night Hanukkah celebration. Taking place at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, the festivities feature live music, games, crafts, guest speakers and nightly menorah lightings. Most nights, sufganiyot (traditional jelly doughnuts) are served, and on select nights, latkes, hot cocoa and coffee are added to the mix.

When: Dec 19 at 5:30pm

At Temple Beth El in Northbrook—around 25 miles north of Chicago—community members and visitors alike are invited to the Hanukkah Celebration & Latkefest. Explore four themed latke stations, then cast your vote for the top latke station of the night. The feast doesn’t end there—you’ll also enjoy an Israeli-inspired dinner with falafel, hummus and pita bread. Afterward, stick around for a Shabbat and Hanukkah service followed by a delicious dessert spread. And yes, Hanukkah-themed attire is strongly encouraged.