Sunday is the first night of Hanukkah and the community is invited to a menorah lighting on the Hook Mill Green at 3:30 p.m. The second candle will be kindled on Monday at 5 p.m. There will be Hanukkah songs and treats for children both nights.
The Jewish Center of the Hamptons has a number of other gatherings planned at different spots around town to celebrate the Festival of Lights. On Sunday at 5 p.m., after the menorah lighting, people are invited to a Hanukkah party at Nick and Toni’s restaurant on North Main Street with latkes and other holiday treats. On Tuesday at 5, BookHampton will be the spot for Hanukkah stories, songs, and the gift of a Hanukkah book for children. The festivities will move to the Clubhouse in Wainscott next Thursday at 5 p.m., and on Friday, Dec. 23, there will be a Hanukkah shabbat, beach bonfire, menorah lighting, and hot cocoa at Main Beach, also at 5.
All events are free, but the Jewish Center requests advance registration for those not taking place at Hook Mill. It can be done online at bit.ly/3VZA9IM or via the center’s website.
Chabad of the Hamptons has fun activities planned for Hanukkah as well, starting on Sunday with its annual Menorah Parade through the streets of East Hampton. Vehicles will leave from the Chabad House at 13 Woods Lane at 3 p.m. and arrive at the menorah lighting at Hook Mill at 3:30. Those who want a cartop menorah for the occasion can reserve one online at jewishhamptons.com/dreidel.
On Wednesday at Chabad of the Hamptons children can tie-dye beanies and enjoy doughnuts and games of dreidel from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The cost is $15 per child. Looking ahead to Dec. 25, Chabad will mark the final night of Hanukkah with a party at 4:30 p.m. including live music by Tali Yess, crafts for children, a Chinese dinner, latkes, and doughnuts. Admission is free but reservations are requested at the web address listed above.
