Invigorated efforts to spread message of light and Jewish pride in response to rise in anti-semitism.
A giant gelt drop of traditional chocolate coins will be dropped on participants at the Chanukah Festival at Bayshore Mall later this month. The unique experience, marks the first night of the Chanukah festival. A super-sized Menorah will be lit as part of the free event, hosted by Lubavitch of Wisconsin.
“The purpose of this event is to bring the community together for Chanukah,” said Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin, CEO of Lubavitch. “Chanukah is a holiday of light and freedom, where few overcame the many, and light triumphed over darkness,” he said.
“Especially in recent months where we’ve seen heightened anti-Semitism, we need to strengthen our Jewish pride and spread light and goodness to combat this darkness. This event demonstrates this a most powerful way!” He emphasizes that this event is free of charge and open to all, young and old.
“Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop” will be held on Thursday, December 7th (the first night of Chanukah) at 5:00pm. The celebration will be held at The Yard at Bayshore Town Center. “We invite the entire community to participate in this uplifting event,” said the Rabbi.
Special highlights this year are:
ØChanukah Music & Video: Participants will get into the Chanukah spirit with Live DJ and Chanukah videos being played on the BIG SCREEN at Bayshore.
Ø At the peak of the celebration will be the “Great Chanukah Gelt Drop by the North Shore Fire Dept” Traditional chocolate coins, dreidel parachutes, and Chanukah giveaways will be sprinkled from the top of a fire truck’s extended ladder. Children of all ages can collect the many coins as it “rains” down from above!
Ø LED Robot Dancers: These giant robots will be all lit up, and will dance with the participants.
Ø Photo Booth: Participants can take their photos and walk away with a fun memento of the festival.
Ø Choo choo train rides: Kids will love free rides around the Yard on the trackless Chanukah train.
Ø Greetings from local dignitaries: Including County Executive David Crowley, Milwaukee County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman, and more.
In addition, the program will feature:
- Hot drinks by the Friendship Circle
- Chanukah swag for sale, including LED beanies, LED gloves, and LED dreidel straw glasses!
- LED Chanukah head bopper gift for all pre-registered guests
- Hot Food for Sale
- Free Raffles and prizes
- Arts and crafts
- Craft Beer for Sale
- Complimentary Fresh Hot Fried Doughnuts
- Activities for all ages
For more information regarding “Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop,” please call (718) 288-4830 or log on to www.MKEChanukah.com .
