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Community Corner

10 Places to Begin Hanukkah Celebrations

Celebrate Hanukkah with your loved ones by visiting these local events and exhibits this holiday season.

While one of the most cherished and important places to celebrate Hanukkah is at home with family and the ones you love, we compiled a list of places to go and activities to participate in to help get everyone into the spirit of Hanukkah. Menorah lightings, kosher treats and educational displays will all make this holiday special.

1. 

On Sat., Dec. 1 the temple is hosting the First Night Hanukkah and Menorah Lighting at Ammann Riverfront Park. On Friday and Saturday attend a candle lighting at 4:05 p.m. at the temple. The temple also has the Judaica Shop, which sells Kiddush cups, glass platters, menorahs, Seder and Matzoh plates and more. 631-727-3191.

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2. Westhampton Beach, The Village Green

On Saturday, Dec. 4, the Festival of Lights: Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting will take place at 5:30 p.m. The Westhampton Beach High School choir and the Hampton Synagogue's Youth Choir will sing songs of the season. 631-288-1654.

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3. Simon's Beach Bakery Cafe, Westhampton Beach

This is a kosher dairy bakery all year long. Make a trip to obtain some of your favorite Hanukkah treats, such as potato pancakes and doughnuts. The bakery was featured on the food network's show, "The Best Thing I Ever Ate," for their Peach/Raspberry pie. 631-288-2253.

4. 

The bakery at the Riverhead Waldbaum's is Kosher. Other kosher food products are also sold there, such as the Tradition line. Stock up on your holiday favorites! 631-727-1005.

5. 

The Riverhead location carries parave cookies and cakes. Stop by and ask if they are carrying any additional kosher products. Their friendly staff will help you be prepared for Hanukkah! 631-208-9170.

6. 

Take a trip to the library to learn about the history of Hanukkah! Make a day of it and educate yourself further or bring the children in your life. Some good children's book to check out are "Happy Hanukkah lights," Hanukkah around the world," and "Celebrate Hanukkah." 631-727-3228.

7. North Fork Reform Synagogue

A special service for Hanukkah will be held at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3. It is asked that you bring menorahs from home, family heirlooms or modern sculptures in order to partake in the celebration. 631-722-5712.

8. Cutchogue New Suffolk Historical Council

On Saturday Dec. 1 the historical council in conjunction with the North Fork Reform Synagogue's Howard Eilenberg will light the first light of Hanukkah on the Village Green in Cutchogue. Refreshments and holiday songs will accompany the celebration! 631-765-6182.

9. Southampton Historical Museum

Bring the family to the museum's December's Past and Present Exhibit. Here they will learn about the many culture's in the area and how each celebrate during the holiday season. There is a Hanukkah table which features a menorah and the dreidel. It is a free exhibit for all ages. 631-283-2494.

10. 

On Dec. 5 and Dec. 11 bring the kids in your life to a Hanukkah celebration at the book store. Holiday stories, games and songs will entertain and educate everyone, while getting them into the spirit of the season! 631-284-2222.

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