This year Chanukah (or Hannukah) takes place from 7-15 December. There are plenty of menorah lightings and other events across London celebrating the Jewish festival's eight magical nights.
Millwall Jew At Camden Comedy Club
Not strictly Hanukkah-related, but a chance to catch some great Jewish comedy. Ivor Dembina's show — which was on at Edinburgh back in the summer — tells the story of why he swapped supporting Tottenham Hotspur for Millwall.
Millwall Jew, Camden Comedy Club, 2 December 2023
Chanukah fun at JW3
JW3 on Finchley Road hosts Chanukah Funukah, a family friendly Chanukah celebration, featuring cookie decorating, dancing, and special musical 'candle lightings'. There's a similar, free, event — Chanukah at Brent Cross — also organised by JW3, on 10 December.
Chanukah Funukah (3 December 2023) and Chanukah at Brent Cross (10 December 2023)
Willesden Jewish Cemetery tour
Willesden Jewish Cemetery is fascinating — the resting place of many of the Rothschild family, plus Jack Cohen, who founded Tesco. A guided walk on 4 December is a wonderful overview of the cemetery, its traditions and inhabitants.
Willesden Jewish Cemetery tour, 4 December 2023
Chanukah Menorah in Trafalgar Square
What better way to celebrate the festival than with a giant menorah lighting? This is what usually happens in Trafalgar Square, starting on the first day of Hanukkah, with the menorah lit each day throughout the eight days of the festival, accompanied by live music and festivities.
Chanukah in Trafalgar Square, TBC, probably starts 7 December
Chabad Islington's menorah lighting
Listen to live klezmer, make candles, eat traditional Chanukah cuisine, play dreidel and meet new friends at Chabad Islington's Menorah Lighting. Both Jewish and Non-Jewish people are welcome to enjoy this free spectacular.
Chabad Islington's menorah lighting, 10 December 2023
A Baroque Hanukkah at St John's Smith Square
Celebrate the works of Jewish-Italian violinist and composer Salomone Rossi at this concert at St John's Smith Square. Rossi was the first to compose contemporary-styled pieces to Hebrew texts, and pioneered the trio sonata genre.
A Baroque Hanukkah, St John's Smith Square, 13 December 2023