For many families across South Georgian Bay, Chanukah has become a familiar and visible part
of the winter landscape — marked by public menorah lightings, community gatherings, and
moments of reflection. What began two years ago as the region’s first public Chanukah
menorah lighting at Blue Mountain Village has since grown into a broader presence across the
area.
This year, following the establishment of a full-time Chabad presence in the region, Chanukah
was observed through a series of public celebrations and community outreach initiatives
spanning Collingwood, Blue Mountain, and Meaford, reflecting both growth and deepened
engagement with the wider community.
Among the Chanukah celebrations was a pre-Chanukah children’s program hosted at Home
Depot in Collingwood, where more than 40 children and families participated in a hands-on
activity exploring the holiday’s themes. Additional programming included a Chanukah pop-up at
Loblaws, offering residents an opportunity to learn about the holiday and take home menorah
kits and Chanukah treats.
Chanukah’s first night was marked by Chabad Collingwood’s third annual Grand Menorah
Lighting at Blue Mountain Village. Community members, visitors, and local leaders gathered for
the public celebration of the Festival of Lights. This year’s event also included a moment of
reflection, paying tribute to the victims of the tragic attack at a Chanukah celebration in Sydney,
Australia earlier that day.
Remarks were shared by representatives from Member of Parliament Terry Dowdall’s office,
Member of Provincial Parliament Brian Saunderson, and Blue Mountains Mayor Andrea
Matrosovs, who spoke about unity, resilience, and the importance of standing together during
challenging times.
Alongside public celebrations, Chanukah was also observed through a series of community
outreach visits. Rabbi Berel and Sara Shur of Chabad Collingwood visited Bay Haven
Retirement Community and Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, spending time with
residents, patients, and staff and sharing the spirit of the holiday. Visits were also made to the
Collingwood OPP detachment and the Collingwood Fire Department as a gesture of
appreciation for those who serve the community year-round.
Chanukah concluded with the first public menorah lighting in Meaford, marking the holiday’s
final night. The new event brought together local residents, visitors from surrounding
communities, and municipal leaders, including Meaford Mayor Ross Kentner, Deputy Mayor
Shirley Keaveny, and members of council, extending Chanukah celebrations further across the
region.
Chabad Collingwood says the expanded Chanukah programming reflects both a growing
Jewish presence in South Georgian Bay and an ongoing commitment to contributing to the
broader community. More information about Chabad Collingwood and its year-round
programming can be found at jewishcollingwood.com, with updates also shared through its
email list and social media channels.
Warmly,
Rabbi Berel Shur
Chabad Collingwood
