Baron Hirsch Brings Ben Yeuda Street to Chanukah

On the first night of Chanukah, Tuesday, December 20th, Baron Hirsch is lighting up the night with its inaugural Chanukah on Ben Yehuda Street event.

From 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., the sights, sounds and flavors of Jerusalem’s beloved pedestrian mall will come alive, right here in Memphis. There will be traditional Israeli street foods, from pizza and falafel to coffee and pastries, with café tables to sit at while watching live street performances and public menorah lighting.

Storefronts will feature art, jewelry, Judaica and clothing, as well unique Israeli products. Vendor chairs Noreen Freiden and Chany Fleischhacker have ensured that there will be interesting and unique items available for men, women and kids of all ages.

Children will also have plenty of activities to choose from. There will be clay-making, as well as a movie theater showing Chanukah family classics. The winner of the search for the cruse of pure oil will be honored with the lighting of the menorah for everyone on the street to see. Children will also be able to participate in an archeological dig, unearthing treasures from past eras and bringing their finds to the Ministry of Antiquities to learn the history of the items.

Admission ($13 for adults; $8 for children, ages 3 to 11) includes all activities as well as “gelt” to buy a choice of dinner options available at the Ben Yehuda cafes. Extra “gelt” can be purchased separately for those who would like to buy additional dishes or treats.

The evening, chaired by Patti King, Shani Lubetski, Tracy Mendelson and Rachel Siegel, promises to be an exciting addition to your Chanukah celebrations this year. For reservations, questions, or to inquire about becoming a vendor, call 901-683-7485, or e-mail gwen@baronhirsch.org.