Erin Lanahan 
Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, starts on Sunday, December 14th and ends on Monday, December 22nd, 2025. The Jewish community in Hoboken + Jersey City is hosting plenty of events before, during, and after the holiday. This time of year is a wonderful chance to gather with friends and families to celebrate cherished traditions. The Hoboken Girl rounded up a list of all the Hanukkah-related events in the area. Read on for a guide to Hanukkah events happening in Hudson County and beyond for 2025.
December 14th at 5PM
Located at Hoboken City Hall, join other families for a Gelt Drop, music, glow-in-the-dark fun, and of course, latkes and donuts. The free event is hosted by Chabad of Hoboken + Jersey City.
December 14th from 10AM – 11:45AM Kids can join this interactive Chanukah experience to learn about how the miracle of oil happened. Participants will harvest and press real olives to make their own oil to light the menorah. Registration details can be found online.
December 14th from 4PM – 5:30PM This gathering is intended for families with young children who do not attend Kaplan Preschool. There will be Hanukkah treats, dreidel games, music, and candle lighting. Visit the website for information on registration.
December 17th from 7:30PM – 9:30PM
This gathering is for Jews by choice and those looking to convert. This information session will provide an opportunity for people to hear the stories of people who have converted to Judaism and to ask questions. Registration information can be found online.
December 19th from 6:30PM – 8:00PM
Enjoy some Hanukkah music during a Friday night service at the United Synagogue of Hoboken. Latkes are available following the service, among other treats.
December 10th from 7:30PM – 9:30PM
Whether you’re a seasoned breadmaking pro or just starting your baking journey, the J’adore Babka Bake Ladies Night Out is creating a welcoming environment to learn tips and tricks for making babka this holiday season. Join in on the celebration and register online here.
December 16th | 6PM
December 17th | 5:30PM
December 19th | 5:30PM
Celebrate Chanukah Shabbat with delicious dinner and prayer service. Register online here.
Celebrate the Festival of Lights throughout Montclair, West Orange, Verona, South Orange, Little Falls, and more with local Hanukkah events for families and community members of all ages. Below is a guide to upcoming Menorah lightings, kids activities, festive gatherings, and more happening this holiday season.
December 14th from 10AM to 11:30AM
This Chanukah-themed block party will teach kids the miracle of the oil for the Menorah. Kids will be able to build their own Menorah and take it home. Registration details can be found online. The location will be provided after you RSVP.
December 14th from 4:30PM – 6PM
This will be an evening of light, unity, and joy for the entire community. A firetruck Gelt Drop, a fire performance, and a DJ truck are just a few of the highlights of this Menorah lighting. Check out all the details online.
December 15th from 3:45PM to 4:45PM
December 16th at 7:30PM
Join the Hanukkah celebration at Just Jake’s on December 16th. Enjoy live music, treats, and Menorah lighting. All you have to do is bring the good vibes and warm holiday spirit. Full details are available online.
December 16th at 6PM
This festive gathering will have music, family activities, and a Menorah lighting.
December 16th at 6PM
There will be blessings, music, and a Menorah lighting with faith leaders and elected officials from Maplewood and South Orange.
December 17th at 6:30PM
Expect a night full of music plus treats like cookies, latkes, and donuts.
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Hoboken
Chanukah Gelt Drop and Menorah Lighting | 94 Washington Street
Chanukah Club for Kids | 720 Monroe Street
Community Hanukkah Party | 115 Park Avenue
Hanukkah Gathering | 115 Park Avenue
Hanukkah Oneg Shabbat | 115 Park Avenue
Jersey City
Jadore Bake Jersey City | 255 Brunswick Street, Unit 1
Menorah Lighting | Newark Street Walkway
Fire Juggling + Menorah Lighting | Jersey City Waterfront
Chanukah Shabbat Dinner | 255 Brunswick Street, Unit 1
Hanukkah Events in Montclair, Verona, West Orange + Beyond
Ckids Chanukah Club | Montclair
Montclair Chanukah Fest + Menorah Lighting: FIRE AND ICE | Church Street, Montclair
West Orange Menorah Lighting | 66 Main Street, West Orange
Light Up The Night | 30 Park Street, Montclair
Verona Hanukkah Celebration | 880 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona
SOMA Menorah Lighting | Ricalton Square, Maplewood
Little Falls Menorah Lighting | Memorial Park, Little Falls
