The 'Coolest' Hanukkah Celebration in Blue Back Square

Chabad of Greater Hartford hosted a "cool" Hanukkah celebration for the entire community Sunday night in Blue Back Square.

A crowd had gathered by 4 p.m. to observe a master ice carver sculpt a giant menorah from a block of ice. The celebration of "Fire on ICE" was ultimately achieved when the giant menorah was lit at 4:45 p.m.

Hundreds celebrated throughout the afternoon and evening in a heated tent. Activities included a menorah-building contest for children, Jewish music, food from Yosi's Kosher Catering, and photos with "Judah Maccabee."

Chabad hosted the event with the purpose of bringing the community together, to celebrate Hanukkah and reach as many people as possible. A release from Chabad reads: "Chanukah is the holiday of light and freedom, where few overcame the many, light triumphed over darkness; freedom overcame oppression, and good prevailed over evil. This is the universal message of Chanukah."

The event was free of charge and open to all. For more information about Chabad of Greater Hartford, visit their website www.chabadhartford.com.