HUNTINGTON VILLAGE, NY – December 15, 2025
A Moment of Reflection Before Celebration
On the second night of Hanukkah, residents gathered in Huntington Village for the annual Huntington Menorah Lighting, braving cold temperatures to stand together in warmth and solidarity. Before the ceremony began, Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth asked attendees to pause for a moment of silence to honor the victims of recent acts of violence against the Jewish community, including the tragic events in Australia, and at Brown University.
The quiet moment set a solemn yet meaningful tone, reminding those present that Hanukkah is not only a celebration, but also a call to reflect, remember, and stand united.
Rededicating Ourselves to Light
Following the moment of silence, speakers emphasized the deeper meaning of Hanukkah – a holiday rooted in perseverance, faith, and hope. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the history of the Festival of Lights and its relevance today.
“This is an important time to rededicate ourselves,” stated Supervisor Ed Smyth, “to build a community rooted in kindness, unity, charity, and hopefulness for all people. We are called to be shining lights in a dark world.”
Community Support and Gratitude
The evening was made possible through the collaboration of local leaders, organizations, and volunteers. Thanks were extended to Rabbi Yaakov Raskin of Chabad of Huntington Village, Town officials, public safety personnel, and event partners including Northwell Health Huntington Hospital.
Special appreciation was shared for community members and staff who worked behind the scenes, including Nicolina Scisca – Coordinator of the Huntington Holiday Spectacular, General Services, Public Safety, and the Suffolk County Police Department Second Precinct, ensuring the event was welcoming and secure.
Prayers for Peace and Unity
Rabbi Raskin led the crowd in the Shema, inviting everyone to stand together in prayer – not only for the Huntington community, but in unity with Jewish communities around the world. The prayer served as a powerful reminder of shared faith, resilience, and collective responsibility during a difficult time.
The Meaning of the Flame
In a heartfelt message, Rabbi Raskin reflected on why light holds such a central place in Jewish life. Unlike physical things, he explained, spirituality grows when it is shared. A flame that lights another does not diminish – it multiplies.
He recounted the story of Hanukkah, when a single small jug of oil, found against all odds, burned not just for eight days, but symbolically for more than 2,000 years. That same light, he said, was being kindled again in Huntington.
“When darkness tries to scare us,” he told the crowd, “we respond with more light.”
Lighting the Second Candle Together
To symbolize unity and safety, attendees were given glow sticks, representing the Shamash, the helper candle. Together, the crowd cracked the glow sticks and held them high, creating a visual expression of shared strength and togetherness.
With voices raised in song and prayer, the second candle of Hanukkah was lit, accompanied by traditional blessings and music celebrating peace, strength, and Jewish pride.
A Celebration of Joy, Resilience, and Community
Following the candle lighting, families stayed to enjoy jelly donuts, hot chocolate, music, and an ice carving demonstration. The Huntington Fire Department added a special touch, delighting children by distributing chocolate gelt from their fire truck.
As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: in the face of fear or hatred, the Huntington community chose light.
“Am Yisrael Chai,” the crowd declared – the Jewish people live.
Photography by Diane Schaber. Live Videography by June Margolin. Reel Videography by Megan.
