Lighting of the Menorah in Fredericksburg symbolizing start of Hanukkah

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- December 25 marks the first night of Hanukkah, the 8-day Jewish festival celebrating freedom from oppression. Also known as the festival of lights, a candle is lit each night on the menorah.

In the City of Fredericksburg, the community is invited to participate in lighting the Menorah, traditional sufganiyot, and other festivities to celebrate nights one and two of Hanukkah.

Rabbi Yossi Marrus, Executive Director of Chabad of Boerne, told KXAN he feels world events should bring Jewish people together more than ever before at this free event.

"I think it's very important for the Jewish Community to come out to celebrate Hanukkah," says Rabbi Marrus, "and for the community at large to come out and stand there and be there with their neighbors to say, 'we are really one community. One people, one nation and we need to stand together."

The event in Fredericksburg kicks off Thursday, December 26th which is the second night of Hanukkah, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Marktplatz Plaza located at 114 W. Main Street. There will be food and games and more for the community to enjoy.