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Jews In Tri-State Area And Worldwide Begin Celebrating Chanukah Tonight

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Jews across the Tri-State area will begin celebrating Chanukah this evening.

The festival of lights begins at sundown, and is observed for eight nights.

It commemorates the rededication of the holy temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd Century.

There was only enough oil to light the temple's menorah for one day, but the oil is said to have lasted eight days.

Now, Jews worldwide mark Chanukah by lighting a menorah and adding a candle every night, for eight nights.

Remember, you put the candles in from right to left, but light them from left to right and you add the Shehecheyanu, which is a prayer said to celebrate a special or first occasion, on the first night.

Chanukah and Christmas will overlap this year.

Here are some ways to celebrate the holiday in the Tri-State area:

- The 4 Best Chanukah Celebrations In New York City
- NYC's 5 Best Potato Pancakes (Or make your own! Try them with both potato and zucchini mixed together for a new and tasty take on the treats)
- The 6 Best Holiday Events In New York City

Do you have a Chanukah suggestion? Share it in the comments section below!

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