Natick celebrated Chanukah in December with a menorah lighting on the common and a talk the next day.

Both events were sponsored by Chabad Center of Natick - Metrowest.

The menorah lighting took place Sunday Dec. 14, complete with light-up necklaces, hot latkes and hot cocoa. 

The Natick Fire Department dropped Chanukah chocolate gelt coins, which children in the crowd awaited with anticipation. 

The next day, about 50 residents gathered for a celebration that center representatives described as filled with warmth, insight, and spirited conversation.

Rabbi Levi Fogelman captivated the room with a Chanukah message of “Spirit over Matter” that shared a profound message: Beneath the routines of daily life lies a deeper purpose and light. 

His engaging style was infused with humor and genuine connection, which transformed the program into a lively, thoughtful dialogue filled with questions and reflection, center representatives said.

Adding to the experience, Rabbi Fogelman brought along silver Menorah, which residents admired with great enthusiasm. 

The evening was complete with glowing menorah necklaces and sufganiyot a jelly-filled doughnut traditionally served during Chanukah that symbolizes the oil that lasted eight days.

Attendees also enjoyed crispy latkes, and, most importantly, according to the center, a shared sense of joy and inspiration.