While Hanukkah this year officially begins at sundown on December 25, the celebrations and festivities are getting underway a little earlier at the National Museum of American Jewish Military History in D.C. In fact, the fun is set to begin tomorrow, December 17, with the return of their annually hosted Hanukkah Party, or, as is the case this year, a “(Pre)Hanukkah Party.”
Always presented as an event designed for the entire family, all the festive happenings are held directly onsite at the museum. Doors open at 6 p.m., at which time guests are welcome to start the evening with tours of the museum’s storied history, attractions, and displays. Take note of the special emphasis and focus on how the Jews who have served in the American Military throughout time have been continuing to uphold a tradition set by the Maccabees from so long ago.
All the partying and good times will commence at 6:30 p.m. Those who have attended past year endeavors know firsthand that you can expect a vast array of mutually befitting family-friendly follies. There will be games to keep the interest and delight of young and old alike, for instance.
Who doesn’t like a bit of music and singing to keep the scene inspiring and jovial? From the timeless song classics that everyone knows the lyrics to (and can sing along with) to the simple joy of joining together in harmony with family and friends, the community fellowship alive and well on the scene here makes these annual parties pleasing on so many levels.
As is always the case with any Jewish celebration, you can expect the delights of delicious food to accompany all of the onsite excitement. Expect to find your beloved favorites being served up, from latkes to jelly doughnuts, gelt, and more. By joining in at this year’s (Pre)Hanukkah you’re in for some truly filling and fulfilling festive family-friendly fun.
The (Pre)Hanukkah Party at the National Museum of American Jewish Military History is co-sponsored by the Jewish Study Center and is free to attend. You can learn more about the event and other details on the event link.
After several years of discussion and professional preparations, the National Museum of American Jewish Military History was chartered by an act of Congress in 1958. Supported by the Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A., the museum continues to uphold its founding mission of documenting and preserving the contributions of the American Jewish population and honoring their ongoing quest and commitment to peace and freedom.
The museum’s collective holdings largely showcase personal stories and reflections of courage, heroism, and honorable sacrifices made by veteran Jewish Americans who served in the armed forces. Other exhibits and displays serve to commemorate various people and heroic actions that have been taken to combat ongoing anti-Semitism throughout the world.
The National Museum of American Jewish Military History is located at 1811 R Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, admission is free but generous donations and support are always appreciated and go a long way. You can learn more about the museum, its attractions, and all upcoming events on the website at www.nmajmh.org.