Jewish congregations in East County are holding a pair of events celebrating Chanukah, the eight-day holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The public is invited to both events.

Chanukah Festival

Chabad of the Delta, a Jewish outreach and awareness organization, invites the public to Brentwood’s second annual outdoor Chanukah Festival on Thursday, Dec. 22 – the third evening of the eight-day holiday – from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at The Streets of Brentwood, 2565 Sand Creek Road.

The event feaures food, music and a fire-juggling show followed by the lighting of a 9-foot-tall Menorah (Chanukah candelabra) that will be set up at The Streets for the duration of the Chanukah holiday.

Chanukah begins Tuesday evening, Dec. 20 and continues through Dec. 28. It commemorates the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem following the Jews’ victory over the ancient Assyrian-Greek Empire, which sought to prevent the Jews from practicing their faith. Chanukah also propagates the universal message that ultimately good will prevail over evil, freedom over oppression and light over darkness.

“The significance of Chanukah today is a reconfirmation of faith and hope,” said Rabbi Dovber Berkowitz, Director of Chabad of the Delta. “Brentwood’s public Menorah lighting proclaims the universal message of religious freedom and tolerance so critical in light of today’s world situation. In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. Today, we rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place. We look forward to welcoming everyone at a warm and happy celebration.”

For further information, visit www.jewishdelta.com or call 925-238-8770. Chabad of the Delta meets at 288 Mountain View Drive in Brentwood.

Hanukkah party

Congregation B’nai Torah invites the public to its annual Hanukkah party on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. at St. George’s Church, 301 East 13th St. in Antioch. Attendees are invited to share in the potluck dinner by bringing their favorite non-meat dish, and are welcome to bring their favorite menorah for a group candle lighting.

The family-friendly event features music, games, fabulous food and fun. For further information, e-mail Matt Cordova at mattjcord@comcast.net. B’nai Torah meets the first Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m. and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 10 a.m. at St. George’s Church. For more information, visit www.bnaitoraheastbay.org.