Today, December 11, 2009, is the beginning of Hanukkah. The word Hanukkah, which is, Hebrew for dedication or consecration highlights the celebration of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem symbolized by the lighting of the Menorah. Hanukkah also dubbed the “Festival of Lights” is a celebration of customs that took root back in 198 B.C. but, in 2009 Hanukkah is more a time to go out and share the customs and traditions Hanukkah through clubbing.

When talking to a friend of mine, Ben, he stated that; “The whole religious thing is out the door…” He went on to explain that the traditional 8-9 day celebration mostly among Jewish people is similar to 8-9 nights of Christmas but the intensity is not the same. From what I understand, the ritualistic lighting of the candles still remain but, it’s more like when mom and dad come home from work and put on dinner type ordeal. Ben said, “After we do the lightings and eat, I call some friends up and we got the club or hit a pub or bar in the local area.”

As of 12/11/2009, you are officially ready to kick-off your Hanukkah celebration. But instead of the same ole thing try what Ben and his buddies have been doing for Hanukkah since 1999...go clubbing after you light-up!

For more information on the Hanukkah and other Jewish traditions call: The Jewish Community Federation @ 502-451-8840 or log onto: http://www.americantowns.com/ky/louisville/organization/jewish_community_federation

To the Party People of the World!

Happy Holidays!
Reggie Payne