The eight-day Jewish celebration Hanukkah, also known as the “festival of lights,” begins this year at sundown on Thursday, December 7th. Since LA has one of the biggest and best Jewish populations in the world, it’s only fitting that we give you eight great ways to enjoy this holiday, whether you are Jewish yourself or just want to join in on the fun. Whichever one you choose, we wish your menorah candles the brightest burn this season and to remember to celebrate the beautiful things that make life so sweet. At the heart of Hanukkah, it’s all about celebrating with a nightly menorah lighting, singing, laughing, and sharing special traditions with family and friends.
If you want to learn more about the background of Hanukkah and why it’s so special to the Jewish heritage, our friends at Chabad of Malibu do a great job breaking it down here.
1. 8 Nights at Birdie G’s
Date: Monday, December 4th – 14th
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
Who doesn’t love delicious holiday meals? Santa Monica hotspot Birdie G’s is celebrating Hanukkah this year by hosting a dinner series featuring notable chefs from across the country. Feast on a la carte specials as well as some Birdie G’s classic signatures. The lineup features Sean Brock of Audrey, Junghyun Park of Atomix, and so many more. Don’t forget to book now so that you don’t miss out on delicious food and Mazel-tinis.
2. The MatzoBall
Date: Sunday, December 24th
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
Our Jewish moms love just how many marriages the MatzoBall has resulted in, but we also get a kick from so many other things about the nation’s #1 holiday party. The MatzoBall rolls into Bootsy Bellows, LA’s nightlife hotspot featuring dazzling decor, a clientele including some of Hollywood’s biggest names, and a live DJ spinning chart toppers, hip hop, house, electronic, and R&B. Traveling out of LA for the holidays? No problem – the MatzoBall is also happening in other big cities like Boston, New York, and Boca Raton. For the big matzo ballers, there are also VIP table and bottle service options.
Photo By – Matzo Ball
3. Hanukkah Festival at The Skirball Center
Date: Sunday, December 10th
Neighborhood: Skirball Center, Los Angeles
We love all the events at The Skirball Cultural Center and Jewish museum, and they do a great job making Jewish history both educational and highly entertaining. People of all backgrounds and communities are welcome, and that’s one of the many reasons we recommend their Hanukkah Fest. Fun for the whole family, this wholesome option features traditional Hanukkah food, a holiday-themed photo booth, and a theatrical performance featuring music and puppetry. It may not be on your bucket list yet, but the amount of serotonin produced while dancing to klezmer music with new friends should not be underestimated. This event is also great for kids, and we’ll act like they are the reason we’re in the front row at the storytelling puppet show.
Photo By – The Skirball Cultural Center
4. Menorah Lighting on Third Street Promenade
Date: Thursday, December 7th – 14th
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
Starting Sunday, December 7th at sundown, you can get those daily steps in while you stroll down Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade and celebrate the nightly menorah lighting led by local synagogues and community groups. Make sure to check out their larger Winterlit holiday celebration, where Third Street Promenade transforms into a winter wonderland featuring thousands of colorful lights, decor, and festive outdoor dining experiences. ‘Tis the season!
Photo By – SantaMonica.com
5. Chanukah Winter Wonderland
Date: Sunday, December 7th
Neighborhood: Malibu
Yes, it’s okay to spell Chanukah or Hanukkah differently; the most important thing is just that you observe the celebrations and customs with curiosity and respect. The Chabad of Malibu does a great job at not only providing super fun Chanukah parties, but explaining why we have them and the meanings and intentions behind the traditions. Their Winter Wonderland at Point Dume Village features a golf cart menorah parade, snow globe-making stations, dreidels, and photos in the “snow.”
Photo By – Chabad of Malibu
6. Chanukah Celebration at The Grove Farmers Market
Date: Sunday, December 10th
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
In partnership with JLA and Miracle Mile Chabad, you can enjoy festive activities and celebrate all in one night. Join The Grove’s Farmers Market for a very twinkly star-studded night of light and joy, celebrity appearances, and special Chanukah Treats and surprises. Celebrate the ‘Festival of Lights’ with special performances and arts & crafts for the little ones at the Original Farmers Market. The giant menorah at the Plaza will be lit every evening throughout the holiday.
Photo By – Jewish Home LA
7. Visit a Local Jewish Deli, Bakery, or Restaurant
There are too many good ones to pick just one, but you have your pick of places to either choose your own food or get inspired by their Hanukkah-themed menus. A few ideas to get you started are the traditional ones we all know and love, like Nate ‘n Als, Langer’s, Diamond Bakery L.A., and Canter’s Deli to the less mainstream spots like Wise Sons in Culver City and Birdie G’s in Santa Monica and the beautiful AKASHA in Culver City.
Pro Tip: It can get very busy this time of year, so make sure you call the restaurant before to confirm that they have seating available and to see if you need to order ahead to secure their Hanukkah offerings.
Photo By – Diamond Bakery L.A.
8. Host your own Hanukkah Bash
Snuggle up with friends and get into the holiday mood inside the comfort of your own home. DoorDash some matzo ball soup in, play spin the dreidel or an adult card game, and create a make-your-own latke and latte station. Enlist someone’s Bubbie (grandma-type figure) to make some traditional noodle kugel, or try to bake it on your own. P.S., Make your guests wear a festive, themed sweater to elevate the party! Need some Hanukkah party inspiration? Find our favorites down below!
Need some new outfits to strut in at these festive LA activities? Check out our 12 must-haves for the perfect winter wardrobe!
