The ancient custom of giving children gelt (money) on Chanukah will be taken to a whole new level at 6 p.m. Thursday,
Dec. 10, with the annual dramatic Helicopter Gelt Drop.
After the chocolate coins rain down from the sky in a shimmering shower, children can rush in safely (and socially distant) to collect their treasures.
Lighting up the night at the Nocatee Spray Park, families are invited to a Chanukah Light Show following the kindling of a Giant Glowing Menorah.
The show will be accompanied by lively music and a smorgasbord of Chanukah treats. What’s more exciting, Gili’S Kosher Food Truck, will be there, too. The lighting of a dazzling glow-in-the-dark Menorah and the joyous, family atmosphere will be sure to keep children and children-at-heart engaged and entertained throughout the evening.
“This year’s menorah lighting is done with the recognition of the crucial need for a message of hope during what for many is a very difficult time,” said Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein, director at Chabad of St. Johns. “The flames of the menorah shine out into the night, reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light can dispel it all. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”
Throughout the pandemic, Chabad of St. Johns has been on the front lines of providing social, humanitarian and spiritual support to the community. The COVID-safe menorah lighting is the latest of many innovative programs created in response to these unique times by Chabad of St. Johns, including Passover Seders-to-go, Rosh Hashanah shofar in the park, Shabbat-in-a-box, dozens of meals delivered to the elderly and homebound and menorahs and candles for everyone to bring light into their homes.
To ensure everyone is safe, the menorah lighting will be outdoors in a large field so that everyone can safely socially distance, and wear masks. For those who are 55-plus or high risk, there will be a special socially distant seating area cordoned off. There will also be the option of a drive-in for anyone who is uncomfortable with getting out of their cars. This way everyone can take part in the festivities and ensure that everyone is safe.
As part of a global effort to bring the message of light, love and warmth to the public, Chabad of St. Johns County (Nocatee, St. Johns and the World Golf Village areas) joins thousands of Chabad centers across the globe in staging public Chanukah celebrations.
The celebration is free and open to the public and will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, at the Nocatee Spray Park.
For more information about Chanukah events and public Menorah lighting ceremonies, go to www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com or www.facebook.com/JewishStJohnsCounty
Call (904) 701-4422 or email info@jewishSJohnsCounty.com for more information.
