You might say it’s going to be “menorah borealis” in Brooklyn as Hanukkah is celebrated starting Sunday night. Once again, two Brownstone Brooklyn congregations will try to one-up each other’s giant menorah in public places.
Rabbi Aaron Raskin’s Congregation B’nai Avraham in Brooklyn Heights will unfurl its 29-foot menorah in front of Borough Hall, as Rabbi Shimon Hecht of Congregation B’nai Jacob in Park Slope again inches him out with a massive 30-footer at Grand Army Plaza.
Raskin’s candlesticks might be shorter, but he has managed to get it more recognition — his is billed as the “official” menorah of Brooklyn, and Monday’s lighting will be attended by Borough President Markowitz and followed by a childrens party inside Borough Hall.
Both menorahs will be lit for each night of the holiday, accompanied by music and hot latkes. All events are free — and will occur regardless of the weather.
For full details, see Nine Days In Brooklyn on page 8.