First night of Hanukkah celebrated in Palm Springs

Tuesday marked the first night of Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple.

People celebrating took part in lighting the first candle of the Menorah at Palm Springs City Hall Tuesday afternoon. Palm Springs mayor Robert Moon was on hand to support the group’s request to have the lighting ceremony at city hall.

“Hanukkah is very special because the message of Hanukkah is universal, it’s to bring more light into the world,” said Rabbi Yankel Kreimen, from Bikur Cholim in Palm Springs. “Every night, we have to increase our kindness and good deeds and bring more light into this world.”

“Sometimes we can be lost and not know which direction to go, but with the light, we can see. So may everyone have the blessing of seeing the lights, seeing the clear direction of kindness and joy in everyone’s lives,” said Moshe Kriemen.

Next Monday evening, the lighting of the Menorah will be held at Boomers in Cathedral City. Dessert will be offered at the event.

Hanukkah will end on December 20 at sunset.