Dates and what to expect
The religious calendar dates are confirmed. They are not a confirmed daily timetable for every public ceremony. Eight nights of candle lighting begin December 4; do not assume there is an additional lighting on the evening of December 12.
Public menorah lightings are religious and community celebrations, with different programmes at each location. Music or food mentioned in a general tourism listing is not a promise that every ceremony includes the same activities.
Location, travel and admission
Manhattan’s Grand Army Plaza is beside Fifth Avenue and 59th Street near Central Park. Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza is at the northern end of Prospect Park. Check the borough before opening directions: these are not two names for one place.
Watching a public outdoor lighting is distinct from buying a tour, meal or private Hanukkah event. Check the host’s current attendance instructions and accessibility arrangements. We have not published unconfirmed daily ceremony times.
Visiting with children
Friday and Saturday schedules can differ because of Shabbat, so never assume an identical nightly start. Be considerate during prayers, follow the host’s guidance and ask before photographing participants. Choose one borough and combine the visit with nearby sights.
Checked against the linked organiser and official visitor sources on October 19, 2026. Recheck the programme before travelling, especially where exact hours or visitor arrangements have not yet been announced.
Questions before you go
When is it in 2026?+
Hanukkah runs from the evening of December 4 through nightfall on December 12, 2026. Manhattan and Brooklyn have different Grand Army Plazas, each associated with a major public menorah. The religious calendar dates are confirmed. They are not a confirmed daily timetable for every public ceremony. Eight nights of candle lighting begin December 4; do not assume there is an additional lighting on the evening of December 12.
Where does it take place?+
Manhattan’s Grand Army Plaza is beside Fifth Avenue and 59th Street near Central Park. Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza is at the northern end of Prospect Park. Check the borough before opening directions: these are not two names for one place.
Do I need a paid ticket?+
Watching a public outdoor lighting is distinct from buying a tour, meal or private Hanukkah event. Check the host’s current attendance instructions and accessibility arrangements. We have not published unconfirmed daily ceremony times.
What should families know?+
Friday and Saturday schedules can differ because of Shabbat, so never assume an identical nightly start. Be considerate during prayers, follow the host’s guidance and ask before photographing participants. Choose one borough and combine the visit with nearby sights.
Sources and review date
Editorial update: October 19, 2026. Dates and ticket terms can change. Organiser information is separated from our editorial recommendations; check the linked sources before booking.
