The menorah lighting event on the Commons in Calabasas featured fireworks, live performances and the annual light of the menorah.
The celebration on Tuesday began with Hanukkah music and volunteers distributing hot latkes, jelly donuts and water. Musician Brad Shachter opened with uplifting Jewish tunes.
The event was hosted by Caruso, whose director of operations for the Valley Region, Jake Demirchyan, said, “The evening is about bringing together families and friends to celebrate the holidays. We do it annually and were excited to once again host this special moment for Calabasas residents and neighbors.”
Rabbi Yakov Vann delivered an inspiring address, calling attendees “heroes” for choosing faith over fear. He referenced the recent tragic attack at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Australia, just days earlier.
Following the Star-Spangled Banner and Hatikvah sung by the assembly, Calabasas Shul President Steve Kurtz welcomed attendees and invited them to join synagogue programs, from Shabbat dinners to youth activities.
Children joined the rabbi on stage to light the menorah. The evening concluded with a fireworks show, illuminating the night sky.