'Tis the Season to Eat Latkes

When Hanukkah starts at sundown tonight, many Harvard students will embark upon eight days of food and festivities—even in the midst of reading period. Join in on the holiday fun at the following Hanukkah events:

Grand Menorah Lightings: The Chabad House at Harvard is sponsoring a menorah lighting ceremony on four nights of Hanukkah. President Drew G. Faust and other university officials will be there to celebrate this age-old tradition.

Where: Steps of Widener Library

When: 4 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2, 7, and 8

Nightly Menorah Lightings: Since the death of Shira B. Palmer-Sherman ’02 during Hanukkah in 2000, Harvard Hillel has held menorah lighting ceremonies in her memory. This year’s ceremony, on the first night of Hanukkah, will feature tributes from Harvard Hillel Executive Director Bernie Steinberg and others who were close to Palmer-Sherman at Harvard. Menorah lightings will be held at Hillel each night of the holiday.

Where: Harvard Hillel

When: 5 p.m. on Dec. 1 to 8

Menorah Kit Distribution: The Chabad House is giving out free kits containing a menorah, candles, dreidel, and educational materials. According to Chabad director Rabbi Hirschy Zarchi, this project was launched “to enable Jewish students to celebrate Hanukkah in all its glory.” If you do pick one up, make sure to only light your menorah in designated areas—it is against college policy to light candles inside dorm rooms.

Where: The Chabad House and in front of the Science Center

When: All week at the Chabad House; 10:50 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Dec. 1 and 2 in front of the Science Center

Hanukkah Celebration in the Yard: This party, geared towards freshmen looking to get involved in Jewish life at Harvard, will include a candle lighting ceremony, dreidel games, and a holiday song session. According to organizer Harry A. Chiel ’14, the event is “a great way to usher in the holiday season and learn a little more about Hanukkah.”

Where: Ticknor Lounge in Boylston Hall

When: 8 p.m. on Dec. 5

Hanukkah Casino Night: The Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus is holding this “wild and intensely fun” event, according to an animated promotional video.

Where: Harvard Hillel

When: 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 4

Hanukkah Celebration at Tommy Doyle’s: If you’re 21 or older, you can enjoy a free first drink at this party. If not, join the bash by eating latkes and traditional jelly doughnuts.

Where: Tommy Doyle’s in Harvard Square

When: 10 p.m. on Dec. 2