Celebrations were held to mark the 40th anniversary of the Giant Menorah outside Golder’s Green Station, organised by a Jewish organisation Chabad Golders Green.
The Chanukah, a Jewish festival of light, began on December 25 with a public lighting and distribution of doughnuts every day, with the exception of Friday night (Dec 27), before ending on January 2.
Israeli singer Simche Friedman performed at a special event on December 29, where there were also activities for children and plenty of doughnuts to be enjoyed.
The project was initiated by Dr and Mrs Weinbaum in 1984, with Dr Weinbaum faithfully driving the cherry picker each year to prepare the Menorah for its nightly lighting.
It is now organized by Rabbi and Mrs Yossi Simon of Chabad GG, ensuring the Menorah remains a beacon of community spirit and unity.
The Chanukah was inspired by the vision of the Lubavitcher Rebbe – Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson – who championed public Menorah lightings as a way to share the universal message of Chanukah.
The concept has since grown into a global phenomenon, with thousands of public Menorahs now lighting up cities around the world.
A spokesperson for ChabadGG said: “From the iconic Menorah at the Brandenburg Gate, where Hitler announced the “Final Solution;” to Menorahs standing near the Arch of Titus in Rome; Central Manhattan and Mexico, these symbols of hope and faith have become a beacon for Jews and non- Jews alike, giving the message that live will always prevail the darkness.
“The Menorah serves as an enduring reminder of resilience and faith. Despite centuries of persecution, the Jewish people have persevered, and the Menorah celebrates that unyielding spirit.”
They added: “In the 1980s, the Menorah stood as a symbol of pride that Jews in this country are grateful for the religious freedom that the UK offered.
“In today’s world, where antisemitism is unfortunately rampant, the Menorah’s message feels more relevant than ever. Its light reminds us that even in the darkest times, light will prevail.
“Love will overcome hate. Freedom will overcome oppression. We can spread light and create a ripple effect of positivity and peace.”
