New Mexico Lights Up the Sky with Unique Hanukkah Celebration
On Sunday evening, over 1,200 New Mexicans gathered to witness a dazzling display as nine hot air balloons illuminated the night sky in a tribute to the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. The Night Glow event, held at Balloon Fiesta Park, marked the fifth night of Hanukkah with a spectacle designed to resemble a giant menorah.
A Celebration of Light and Resilience
This year, Hanukkah spans December 25 to January 2 and commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees after its desecration in 165 BC. Central to the holiday’s traditions is the menorah, symbolizing the miracle of a single vial of oil that lasted eight days instead of one during the Temple’s purification.
The event featured nine hot air balloons arranged to represent the menorah’s branches, with each balloon symbolizing a candle. This creative adaptation pays homage to the menorah’s nine branches, including the central shamash, which is used to light the others.
A Unique Tradition in the Land of Enchantment
The Night Glow event, organized by Chabad of New Mexico, has become a hallmark of Albuquerque’s cultural celebrations since its inception in 2016. According to Rabbi Chaim Schmukler of Chabad New Mexico, it’s a tradition that perfectly marries Hanukkah’s message with New Mexico’s rich culture.
“It just hit me that it would be beautiful to have some menorahs made out of balloons, and it picked up and became a New Mexico tradition that’s very New Mexican and very Hanukkah,” Rabbi Schmukler shared.
An 18-foot menorah was also lit alongside the balloons, emphasizing the event’s grandeur and uniqueness. Attendees were treated to live music by Moshe Tischler and his band, who performed a blend of English and Yiddish songs, further weaving Jewish heritage with the festive atmosphere.
Family, Joy, and Goodness
For many, the event is more than just a celebration of Hanukkah — it’s a chance to share its joy and message with the broader community. Jeffrey Glassheim, a regular attendee, noted the event’s welcoming nature. “Chabad is a very inclusive sect of Judaism, promoting the joy of this holiday to the entire city,” he said.
The gathering was a feast for the senses. Traditional Hanukkah foods such as latkes, sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts), and chocolate coins were handed out, along with dreidels and light-up necklaces for children. Security ensured a safe and welcoming environment for all ages.
Spreading Light and Kindness
Rabbi Schmukler encapsulated the spirit of Hanukkah: “The idea of Hanukkah is we’re all menorahs, bringing light and goodness and kindness into the world.” The Night Glow event stands as a testament to this message, blending tradition with creativity to inspire community and warmth.
By bridging Jewish and New Mexican customs, this one-of-a-kind celebration of light continues to draw crowds, spreading a universal message of resilience, joy, and togetherness.