(Courtesy of Valley Chabad) About 200 were in attendance for the menorah lighting in River Vale on Tuesday evening, November 30. The annual event sponsored by Valley Chabad and hosted by the Township of River Vale was extra special this year after skipping last year due to COVID safety.

This year’s event was held entirely outdoors and included a number of highlights:

Huge ice menorah was crafted and carved for the occasion and lit during the ceremony.

Chanukah chocolate “gelt” coin drop from a River Vale fire department truck.

The River Vale Elementary School choir performed Chanukah songs.

Incredible glow and fire show in front of the menorah.

Traditional Chanukah foods such as latkes, doughnuts and hot cider were on hand for all attendees.

Rabbi Dov Drizin, executive director of Valley Chabad, along with Mark Bromberg, River Vale town council president, together recited the blessings and lit the three menorah candles. The eight-day Chanukah holiday began on Sunday evening, November 28. Begining with just one candle, each night an additional candle is lit.

“The light and warmth of the menorah flame that shines on Chanukah is a lesson for us all: We can be that light and warmth to others,” Rabbi Dov told the crowd assembled. “We gather as one community with a united goal to make our world a better place for all with acts of goodness and kindness.”

Valley Chabad also led menorah lightings around the area in Westwood, River Vale, Woodcliff Lake, Allendale and Park Ridge.