By Molly Sanchez
Hanukkah 2014 is upon us! San Francisco is many things but it is not known to take a holiday lying down. Consider these events the city’s gift to the Jewish community, to make up for blasting Christmas music since October.
Bill Graham Menorah
What’s better than a menorah? A big ass menorah! Though technically we know that menorah means candelabra and ḥanukkiyah is the proper name for one used during the holiday, the 25 foot tall tribute to Hanukkah is breathtaking. Starting tonight in Union Square it will be lit every day of the festival of lights and some nights will include live music or readings. Make a night of it by checking out the Union Square ice rink before going home to open presents.
Wise Sons Deli
Touted as San Francisco’s premiere Jewish deli, Wise Sons is offering exclusive menu items for the holiday. You can call in an order, go to their website, or visit their store to get homestyle Hanukkah cuisine to go. For Hanukkah only they are offering their famous brisket all day (formerly only available at dinner) and their special sufganiyot (jelly donuts) that are melt in your mouth delicious.
Warriors Hanukkah
The Golden State Warriors are celebrating the triumph of the Macabe tribe with their Jewish heritage night. On Monday, people who purchase tickets to this special event will receive a commemorative Warriors themed Hanukkah scarf. There will also be themed food offerings and dancing.
Seanukkah Comedy
Local comedian Sean Keane hosts this annual show dedicated to holiday themed stand up, sketches, and music. This year’s event will take place at The Night Light in Oakland and will features comics from LA and SF. This is a great way to preview some of the local talent that will appear at Sketchfest this year as well. There is also rumored to be at least one performer in a dreidel costume
Party At The Jewish Museum
On Thursday night The Contemporary Jewish Museum is hosting a party. Guests can enjoy indie band Happy Fangs as well as themed cocktails, snacks, glow in the dark ping-pong, and much more. Personally, gentile though I may be, you had me at “glow in the dark ping pong.”
JCCSF Unplugged
We’ve already mentioned that the Jewish Community Center is hosting some bitchin events next year but they’re also hosting an epic Hanukkah concert. The free event will include a local band, happy hour, dreidel spinning, and a make your own latke bar.
Photos courtesy of Flickr user, Robert Couse-Baker.
