Giant menorah to adorn Poconos' skyline

In addition to the fixture mountain ranges and renowned alpine views, a new towering sight will adorn the Poconos skyline this Hanukkah: A giant, outdoor, Menorah. The symbol will be featured at Chabad of the Mountains Hanukkah events on Dec. 27 and Dec. 29, hosted by local Weis Markets in Hawley and Tannersville.

"The theme of Hanukkah is spreading light and positivity," says Rabbi Mendel Raices, Director at Chabad of the Mountains.

The Poconos Hanukkah gatherings will focus especially on children, featuring an interactive olive press, Hanukkah crafts, face painting, and holiday-themed balloon making. Traditional Hanukkah foodswill be served, accompanied by live music and dancing.

Chabad of the Mountains have developed a creative idea for the Menorah's construction, infusing the holiday spirit with a humanitarian twist.

"Our Menorah will be built entirely from donated food cans, which, after the holiday, will be distributed to local food pantries," Raices said. "We hope to teach children two powerful messages: The significance of the holiday and the importance of caring for others."