Marking the start of the first night of the 8-day celebration of Chanukah, and focusing on strength, unity, and Jewish pride, Chabad of Greater Hartford’s annual ‘Fire On Ice’ will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 at West Hartford Town Hall, and will include activities for all ages, and children are invited to enter an art contest in advance.

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Chabad of Greater Hartford invites the entire community to this year’s Chanukah “Fire on Ice” Mega celebration on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in West Hartford Center. The event begins at 3 p.m. and registration is free of charge.

Held annually during Chanukah, Fire on Ice continues to serve as a bold and uplifting display of Jewish pride, unity, and resilience.

“In a time when so much darkness is being expressed publicly, we must respond with even more light,” said Rabbi Shaya Gopin of Chabad of Greater Hartford, organizer of the event. “Chanukah reminds us that even a single flame – a single act of goodness – can dispel tremendous darkness. Every mitzvah, every act of kindness, has real power and brings strength to our community and support to our brothers and sisters in Israel.”

New for 2025: Live Concert with International Jewish Music Superstar Yoni Z

This year’s celebration will feature a high-energy live performance by Yoni Z, one of the world’s most electrifying Jewish performers. Known for his dynamic stage presence, powerful vocals, and genre-blending musical style, Yoni Z brings a message of hope, joy, and Jewish pride that resonates deeply – especially this year.

The Ice Menorah: A Symbol of Strength and Resilience

The centerpiece of the event remains the spectacular live carving of an 8-foot ice menorah, which will be illuminated in a grand menorah lighting ceremony. The menorah stands as a symbol of endurance, faith, and the triumph of light – expressed publicly and proudly in the heart of West Hartford.

Chanukah Gift Drop

The beloved Chanukah Gift Drop with the West Hartford Fire Department will once again thrill children as chocolate coins and treats rain down from the extended fire truck ladder.

“Be the Light” Art Contest

Children will also be invited to participate in the “Be the Light” Art Contest, creating artwork that reflects the timeless message: “A little bit of light can dispel a lot of darkness.” Submissions – paintings, drawings, sculptures, or photographs – should be emailed to [email protected]by Dec. 10, 2025. The winning entry will be announced live on stage and featured in West Hartford Magazine and We-Ha.com, with additional prizes awarded.

Safety and Inclusivity

The West Hartford Police Department will again work closely with event organizers to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for all attendees, with both uniformed and plainclothes officers present.

“For a child to celebrate publicly and proudly in the center of their town leaves a lifelong imprint on their Jewish identity,” said Rabbi Gopin. “This event highlights not only Jewish pride, but also the beauty of our town’s inclusive and diverse community.”

In addition to the live musical performance by Yoni Z, the menorah carving and lighting, and the Chanukah Gift Drop, Fire on Ice will also include Mad Science demonstrations, rides on a trackless train, arts and crafts, and face. painting. Fresh hot latkes, doughnuts, coffee, and other refreshments will be available, and there will be free menorahs, candles, at-home Chanukah kits, and door prizes distributed.

Chanukah Fire on Ice is free to attend, open to all, and begins on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m., in the West Hartford Town Hall parking lot. To attend, RSVP via this link: www.FireOnICE.info.

Across Connecticut, Chabad centers will host giant menorah displays, public menorah lightings, and holiday celebrations. To find more Chanukah events in Connecticut or worldwide, visit www.ChabadHartford.com/103839.

More Chanukah information is available at www.ChabadHartford.com/Hanukkah

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