Set against the elegant backdrop of The Colony Hotel, Palm Beach’s most iconic pink landmark, the Chanukah Soirée on December 29th promises to be an evening of sophistication, tradition, and community spirit. Co-hosted by The Chabad House and The Colony, this highly anticipated event has become a highlight of the holiday season for many, drawing some of Palm Beach’s most discerning guests for a night filled with meaning and luxury.
After enjoying a gourmet kosher dinner, attendees will also indulge in sufganiyot (doughnuts) and crispy latkes, symbolizing the miraculous oil that kept the menorah in the Holy Temple burning for eight nights. The menu honors tradition, while the ambiance and impeccable service reflect the timeless elegance of Palm Beach.
What makes this event so special, however, is its history of resilience. Rabbi Zalman Levitin recalls, "The Chanukah Soirée was born out of the Covid-19 pandemic when outdoor gatherings were the only option, and The Colony Hotel, truly a community enterprise, opened their gates to the East Garden for an outdoor Chanukah celebration." Since then, the event has flourished, becoming one of the most beloved occasions of the season.
Throughout the evening, the hotel’s East Garden will be alive with festive energy. Children will enjoy their own program while adults are entertained by an illusionist. As the evening progresses, Rabbi Levitin will lead the menorah lighting ceremony, accompanied by the Palm Beach Jewish Children’s Choir.
As Palm Beachers prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights, Rabbi Levitin reflects on the deeper meaning of the menorah lighting: "The light of the Menorah teaches us that just like one small flame can dispel much darkness, your small, even unseen, acts of goodness and kindness can transform the world."
Hindel Levitin's Sizzling Potato Latkes
Ingredients:
- 5 large potatoes, peeled
- 1 large onion
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup flour
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 3/4 cup oil for frying
Instructions:
- Grate potatoes and onion using a fine grater or food processor. Strain excess water.
- Combine potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drop large spoonfuls of batter into hot oil. Fry for about 4 minutes per side until golden.
- Serve with applesauce.
Variations:
- Zucchini Latkes: Substitute 5 zucchini and 5 carrots for the potatoes.
- Sweet Potato Latkes: Use 5 sweet potatoes for a softer, flavorful latke.
Reservations for the Chanukah Soiree can be made at palmbeachjewish.com/chanukah or by calling 561-420-5000.