8 unique ways to celebrate Hanukkah in Birmingham in 2021

Curious about what you’re going to do for Hanukkah this season? We gathered all the events and menorah lightings to celebrate Hanukkah in Birmingham. Best part? There’s something almost every night. Let’s celebrate light, Bham!

Ever wondered what Hanukkah’s about? We chatted with Mushka Posner of Chabad of Alabama. Here’s what she told us:

“Chanukah (also spelled Hanukkah) is an eight-day “festival of lights” celebrated with nightly menorah lighting, playing dreidel, special prayers and fried food! Chanukah celebrates the victory of the small Jewish army over the mighty Syrian-Greek army that wanted to erase their way of life, and the miracle that occured when the reclaimed the Holy Temple and lit the menorah.”

Mushka Posner, Chabad of Alabama

1. Grand Menorah Lighting Nov. 28, 4:30PM

There are plenty of Menorah lightings happening around Birmingham. On first day of Hanukkah, November 28th, come down to the Summit to watch the Grand Menorah lighting.

There will be music, a stilt walker, balloon twister, silent disco, drum circle, donuts and more. Did I mention there will be latkes?

• When: November 28, 4:30PM
• Where: Saks Plaza, Saks Fifth Avenue, 129 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35243

2. Homewood Menorah Lighting, Nov. 29

• When: November 29, 5PM
• Where: By the intersection of 18th Street + 29th Ave.

The mayor and city council will join, and there will be music, family fun and of course treats!

3. Vestavia Hills Menorah Lighting, Dec. 1, 5PM

Come celebrate the holidays at Vestavia Hills. Watch as the city lights their own menorah and join in on lots of fun activities. Also, there will be tons of snacks. That’s a plus for me!

• When: December 1 at 5PM
• Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall, 1032 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

4. VIRTUAL Menorah Lighting—Dec. 1, 7PM

It’s always better together. So, celebrate Hanukkah in Birmingham virtually. Join Temple Beth-el for candle lighting at 7. There will be fun Hanukkah DIYs and trivia.

Here’s the Zoom link—don’t miss it.

• When: December 1, 7-8PM
• Where: Your very own home

BONUS: Celebrate Hanukkah with Temple Beth-el. Follow their Facebook for at-home DIY Hanukkah crafts.

5. Matzah Ball

Join Birmingham’s first Matzah Ball—pun intended—on December 2. Wear your fave holiday cocktail outfit and fanciest face mask, it’s gonna be nice! This event is hosted by You Belong in Birmingham, a group connecting young Jewish Birmingham-ians.

The event is located on the second floor of Avondale Brewery. It’ll be a night of celebration! You can expect the coolest DJ, drinks, sweet and menorah lighting. Tickets.

• When: December 2, 8-10PM
• Where: Avondale Brewery, Avondale Brewing Company, 201 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222
• Cost: $20

6. Visit the Chanukah House in Forest Park

We love the Wacky Tacky Light Tour, so without a doubt, you’ll catch us at the Chanukah House. Check it out on Rockford Road near the Altamont School.

And yes, there will be a Fiddler on the Roof.

7. Get your sufganiyot (jelly donuts)

Celebrate Hanukkah in Birmingham by eating some sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts).

• Hero Doughnuts: Sufganiyot (it’s all about the powered sugar)
• Location: Find a location near you.

8. Car Menorah Parade

Leaving from the Chabad House on Overton Road, join the lineup to celebrate Hanukkah in Birmingham. You’ll get a menorah on top of your car. The parade will depart at 4:45, so be there by then for a smooth setup.

Register your car here. It’ll be a fun way to light up Birmingham,

• When: December 5, 5:30-6:30PM
• Where: 3040 Overton Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223

What’s your fave way to celebrate Hanukkah? Tell us on social @bhamnow.