Chanukah Celebration Returns to (Near) Normal

Uplifting Chanukah songs provided by Eighth Day, an American Hasidic pop-rock band based in Los Alamitos.

The joy was palpable as nearly 400 members of the Castro Valley Jewish community, ranging from toddlers to seniors, gathered together for an outdoor Chanukah celebration and concert outside the Creekside Middle School on Dec. 1.

Following the success of last year’s drive-in event, they once again clapped, snapped, and sang along with uplifting Chanukah songs provided by Eighth Day, an American Hasidic pop-rock band based in Los Alamitos.

But unlike last year, when each family unit was isolated in their cars, connecting through a giant 25-foot air screen and audio that was piped in through their car radios, this year the milled about, enjoyed Chanukah treats, and socialized in person.

Among the youngest set, there was particular excitement surrounding Steve, who mesmerized the children with bubble tricks and ornate balloon creations.

Further brightening the already-festive mood were the uplifting songs chosen by Eighth Day, who regaled the audience with evergreen favorites like “Why wait to celebrate?” and Chanukah specials such as “Miracle of Light.”

As in past years, Rabbi Shimon Gruzman, director of Chabad of Castro Valley, who organized the event, thanked the Castro Valley Unified School District for graciously providing the space and enabling the annual celebration.

“It was inspiring and invigorating to see everyone and to light the menorah together,” says Gruzman. “As we lit the giant menorah menorah and said the blessing thanking God, who does miracles ‘in those days at this time,’ we are grateful for the miracles that are enabling us to combat the pandemic and work toward a restoration of normal life as we know it.”