How and Where to Celebrate Hanukkah in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has plenty of Hanukkah happenings planned throughout the eight-day-long holiday celebration.

December 6, 2022

Kaitlyn Murray,

Hanukkah Dinner. Family Gathered Around The Table Sharing Challah

Via Getty Images.

For those who may not be as familiar with the history of the widely celebrated Jewish holiday, the story of Hanukah begins around 166 BC when King Antiochus IV of the Greek Empire outlawed Judaism and defiled the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In response, a small Jewish army known as the Maccabees led a successful rebellion against the Greeks. But when they returned to the Temple to relight the ritual candelabra (menorah), there was only enough oil left to last one day. Miraculously, it lasted eight. Today, Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah and commemorate the Maccabees’ victory with eight nights of menorah lightings and fried food (made with oil) consumption.

While many traditionally do their celebrating with family at home, Rhode Island does have plenty of Hanukkah happenings throughout the week for your consideration:

Car Menorah Parade

When: Sunday, December 18, 3 at p.m.

Where: The route begins at the Chabad of West Bay Chai Center in Warwick and ends at the Rhode Island State House in Providence. RSVP to reserve a menorah for your vehicle.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Warwick Mall Menorah Lighting

When: Monday, December 19, at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Warwick Mall (near JC Penny)

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Cranston City Hall Menorah Lighting

When: Tuesday, December 20, at 5 p.m.

Where: Lobby of Cranston City Hall

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

City of Providence Hanukkah Spectaculah

When: Sunday, December 18, from 3–6 p.m.

Where: Biltmore Park in Providence

What: This free, family-friendly event features festive food, music, drinks, candle-lighting and art with your neighbors and friends.

More info: jewishrhody.com

Pawtuxet Park Menorah Lighting

When: Wednesday, December 21, at 7 p.m.

Where: The gazebo at Pawtuxet Park in Warwick

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

East Greenwich Town Hall Menorah Lighting

When: Thursday, December 22, at 6 p.m.

Where: The East Greenwich Town Hall’s front lawn

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Project Shoresh Best Jewish YP Chanukah Party!

When: Thursday, December 22, at 7:45 p.m.

Where: Congregation Ohawe Shalom in Pawtucket

What: Join YPs from around Southern New England for an uplifting and joyous, music-filled evening with Chanukah delicacies and fun for everyone! The party will feature doughnut, latke and salad stations, as well as a Yankee Macabee swap, a classic dreidel tournament and a longest dreidel spin tournament. Note: There is a $10 admission fee.

More info: jewishrhody.com

Chanukah Wonderland

When: Sunday, December 25, 11 a.m.

Where: Chabad of West Bay Chai Center

What: Enjoy arts and crafts, cookie decorating, an olive oil workshop, kosher Chinese snacks and more.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

But if you are planning to stick closer to home, consider picking up a delicious Hanukkah-appropriate goodie or two from one of the following Jewish (or Jew-ish, as the self-proclaimed case may be for some) bakeries:

Just Like Nana’s

Hours: Order for pickup only, see website for details.