The Chabad of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh will host its 19th annual Hanukkah Experience with its grand menorah lighting and parade, followed by a traditional meal, movies and crafts for children. The event begins at the Merrick Long Island Rail Road station and features performances by local students

Communities all across the island have been spreading the holiday cheer with menorah and Christmas tree lightings. Here are some of the season's standouts!

On eight consecutive nightfalls, Jews gather with family and friends to light one additional candle in the menorah — a multi-branched candelabra.

Christmas Day also marks the beginning of the Jewish holiday Hanukkah - it's the first time in 19 years that both holidays begin at the same time. The eight-day-long festival features the lighting of a Hanukkah menorah every evening to symbolize God's presence.

Youngstown Area Jewish Federation prepares for Hanukkah