This Chanukah, Yeshivas Lubavitch Northwest Florida marked the Yom Tov with a series of impactful events that brought Jewish pride and visibility throughout the region, creating a meaningful Kiddush Hashem.

In a historic first, a public Chanukah menorah lighting was held in Holmes County, Florida, drawing nearly 60 attendees, including local Jewish community members, residents, and county officials. The Holmes County Sheriff, joined by deputies and their families, addressed the crowd, as did Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Yoseph Wernick, who spoke about the message of Chanukah and the importance of bringing light to every corner of the world, followed by the public lighting of the menorah.

The gathering honored a local friend of the yeshiva, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Corporal and double-leg amputee, in recognition of his service and resilience.

A video from the event quickly spread throughout the region and beyond, being shared more than 6,000 times within 48 hours. The story appeared on the front page of both county newspapers, and throughout Chanukah, people were seen beeping and calling out “Happy Chanukah.”

As part of the Chanukah celebrations, talmidim of Yeshivas Lubavitch Northwest Florida were invited to participate in a Chanukah party hosted by Governor Ron DeSantis and the First Lady at the Florida Governor’s Mansion. Governor DeSantis spoke about his commitment to supporting the Jewish community throughout Florida, and the bochurim represented Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit with dignity and warmth.

Yeshivas Lubavitch Northwest Florida operates under the leadership of Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Yoseph Wernick and is dedicated to fostering strong Torah learning and Chassidishe chinuch, while preparing talmidim to represent Torah and mitzvos with pride wherever they go.

Registration is opening soon for Shiur Aleph, Shiur Bais, and 8th Grade Mechina. To learn more, visit www.yeshivaslubavitchNWFL.com.