WINTER PARK, Fla. — Wednesday, hundreds showed up to commemorate the Jewish holiday on Park Avenue in Winter Park.

It’s the first time since 2005, the start of Hanukkah and Christmas fell on the same day.

What You Need To Know

  • Hundreds showed up to commemorate the Jewish holiday on Park Avenue in Winter Park

  • It’s the first time since 2005 the start of Hanukkah and Christmas fall on the same day

  • It’s Chabad of Greater Orlando’s 25th year throwing the celebration

The Chabad of Greater Orlando put on the celebration, its 25th time doing so.

“It’s the first night of Hanukkah,” said Jacquie Berger, who attended the event. “It’s just a wonderful celebration for everyone that Jewish people are celebrating Hanukkah and the Christian people are celebrating Christmas.”

The celebration commemorated the Jewish holiday with live music, face paintings, a dog show and the highlight of the evening: a grand menorah lighting.

The rare overlap with Christmas will not happen again until 2035.

Last time it happened, was in 2005.

“It is very rare to find,” said Rabbi Dovid Dubov.

Dubov says the significance of Hanukkah is spreading light into the world.

He says it’s a message that’s relevant for those in the Jewish community and on the outside.

“The message of Hanukkah is that a small flame can dispel a lot of darkness, and of course, metaphorically speaking, a small amount of goodness and kindness can make a huge impact in the world,” he said.

Dubov, who has been at Chabad of Greater Orlando for five years, says this is one of their biggest events of the year, a festival that’s open to everyone.

“This is something that means a lot to everybody,” he said.

Hanukkah lasts eight nights until Jan. 2.