Argentina Marks 40 Years of Central Chanukah Celebration

Marking the 40th anniversary of the Central Chanukah celebration in Buenos Aires, Argentina, 3,500 people gathered for a Menorah lighting with music and entertainment in the presence of governmental dignitaries, which was broadcast on state TV station TV Pública.

The 40th anniversary of the Central Chanukah celebration in Buenos Aires, organized by Chabad Argentina, was marked by a grand event on December 26, 2024. Held at Av. del Libertador and Austria, the celebration drew 3,500 attendees and featured live music, a light show, and the lighting of a giant community menorah. Notable figures including Buenos Aires Head of Government Jorge Macri, Israeli Ambassador Eyal Sela, and U.S. Ambassador Marc Stanley were present.

The event, which has become a beloved tradition in the city, also included live broadcasts of menorah lightings from locations across Argentina, such as Ushuaia, Salta, and a family home in Villa Crespo. The evening was aired on TV Pública and social media, reaching hundreds of thousands of viewers.

Rabbi Tzvi Grunblatt, General Director of Chabad Argentina, emphasized the enduring power of Chanukah, describing it as a living tradition that symbolizes light, hope, and Jewish continuity. Jorge Macri highlighted the importance of freedom and unity, stressing that Buenos Aires embraces diversity. Ambassador Sela expressed hopes for the return of hostages held by Hamas, dedicating a special candle lighting to them.

The evening also featured tributes, including recognition of Marc Stanley for his support of the Jewish community and a tribute to the grandchildren of Dr. David Golberg for their role in the first public lighting of the Buenos Aires menorah in 1984.

Rabbi Grunblatt concluded the event with a powerful message about the eternal light of Chanukah, calling on everyone to live by the values of dedication, solidarity, and love for Torah. He expressed hopes for a year of blessings, miracles, and the swift return of hostages.