This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Hanukkah 2012 in Johns Creek

Celebrate the Festival of Lights in Johns Creek with fun events and delicious recipes.

This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.

Jewish synagogues and congregations in Johns Creek include Congregation Dor TamidGesher L'Torah and Chabad of North Fulton. Check their websites for Hannukah events.

According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those of us who aren't attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8. 

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem's main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.

Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

TELL US: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans?

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Johns Creek