For the first time in 20 years, Christmas and Hanukkah will be celebrated on the same day, December 25th. This rare occurrence brings together two major holidays, creating a unique opportunity for shared celebration and reflection.
This year, Christmas and Hanukkah are both happening on December 25th for the first time in 20 years. People were asked about what they love about Christmas and Hanukkah . Bonnie Spindler, a San Francisco resident, said, 'I decorate my house in a Victorian style and have a huge geese dinner.' Yotam Daniel, owner of Hummus Bodega in San Francisco, said about Hanukkah , 'You see the menorah, the candles out, you see the donuts.
' He explained that the donuts are called sufganiyot and are fried dough filled with jam, traditionally served hot with powdered sugar. The last time Christmas and the first day of Hanukkah fell on the same day was in 2005. Michael Pappas, the executive director of San Francisco Interfaith Council, said, 'It's an opportunity for us to pause and to remember that we are all the common creation of being greater than us. And with that, that gives us new hope and new light in life.' At Union Square, the largest menorah in the Bay Area and the oldest public menorah outside of Israel will be displayed next to a Christmas tree. Rabbi Langer said, 'The whole message of Hanukkah is one for religious freedom. To have that freedom, to have that ability to celebrate openly and freely.' He added, 'A great opportunity for the whole entire community from all religions, from all different backgrounds to come together and light menorah right here at Union Square.' Many people say having both holidays coincide marks a truly special time
Christmas Hanukkah Holiday Religious Freedom Interfaith
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