Preparations underway for annual menorah lighting in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Preparations are underway for the annual menorah lighting in downtown Wilmington. 

Each year, the Chabad of Wilmington puts on the lighting to mark the first night of Hanukkah. 

The middle candle is lit first and used to light the other eight candles each night. This year, the public lighting will be held on the second night of Hanukkah, which will fall on the 26th. 

Traditional Hanukkah treats like potato latkes and jelly donuts will also be served. 

Rabbi Moshe Lieblich says the event gives the area’s Jewish community a space to celebrate light overcoming darkness. 

“It’s not very often that we get to have an event of this magnitude, so the fact that they can come out and participate and join such an event I think is very special,” Lieblich said. 

This year’s menorah will be constructed entirely out of ice. The last time that was the case was in 2017. 

The lighting will kick off Thursday night at 5 p.m. on Water St. in downtown Wilmington.