The Charleston community is invited to the 13th annual Chanukah in the Square extravaganza, the largest annual Jewish event in the state of South Carolina, from 4 to 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020. This year’s event, Chanukah at The Bend, will be held at The Bend, 3775 Azalea Dr., North Charleston, S.C., and will be drive-in style.
Parked in a clearly marked and socially distanced parking area, attendees will enjoy live music from the comfort and safety of their vehicles, with food and activities delivered directly by masked volunteers in golf carts – all while they watch the sunset along the Ashley River. The Chanukah lighting ceremony will take place at sundown, at which time local dignitaries will be invited to offer greetings.
“We will continue the tradition of lighting the menorah candles as a community,” says Susie Tecklenburg, administrative director for the Center for Jewish Life, Chabad of Charleston, adding that there will be no shortage of potato latkes. “We are hopeful that by providing a fun, safe alternative to our traditional celebration, we are helping to keep holiday traditions alive and spirits high after a year that’s been difficult for so many.”
Entertainment includes children’s activities, live music, Chanukah treats and giveaways and the giant Menorah lighting, and refreshments include hot potato latkes, donuts, hot pretzels, hotdogs and soup.
This family-friendly celebration is sponsored by the College of Charleston Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program and Chabad of Charleston – Center for Jewish Life, as well as the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs, the Norman and Gerry Sue Arnold Foundation, BSBI Synagogue and other community groups, including Berlin’s Restaurant Supply, the Hyman family, Glowfisch Hospitality Group and the Homegrown Hospitality Group’s T-Bonz Foundation. This event is free and open to the public. Gates will open at 3:30 p.m. for a 4 p.m. start time. Registration is encouraged.
Chanukah at The Bend is an outdoor event that has been organized with social distancing in mind and will meet all local health and safety standards and state regulations. Masks must be worn when outside of the vehicle. The only exception is when the guest is eating in the designated tailgating area around their personal vehicle. All food and activity bags will be delivered to each guest’s designated tailgate area. Food will be prepared onsite by volunteers who wear gloves and masks at all times. Hand sanitizer will be available.
