On Monday 650 Jews from all over Buenos Aires gathered in the center of the city for a loud and proud Chanukah celebration. The Mega Chanukah Fiesta, held at the Plaza Alemania park was touted as a celebration for the whole family.

Translated as German Park, Plaza Alemania is dotted with statues representing the cultural imprint of Germany on Argentina. “It highlights the victory of Chanukah, that we are still here and vibrant no matter how many cultures have tried to obliterate us,” said Rabbi Zalmi Levy of El Lazo, Chabad of Argentina’s youth organization.

Rabbi Shlomo Levy, director of Beit Chabad Palermo and one of the Fiesta organizers, was joined by community members and their children in lighting the 22 foot menorah. Children created Chanukah themed arts and crafts, rode dizzying carnival rides and participated in a variety of games and a raffle for coveted prizes. Chabad staff distributed menorah kits with candles and lighting instructions so participants could continue to celebrate the remaining six days of Chanukah at home.

Rabbi Yossi Birman, co-director of Beit Jabad Palermo organized the event with Rabbi Shlomo, “We got to meet many people who have recently moved into the city because they came out to celebrate with us.” Sheket, a local Jewish band entertained the crowd with Chanukah songs and original compositions. The Fiesta was a joint project of Beit Jabad Palermo and El Lazo.