Overview
- At Pennsylvania’s Capitol, a Chabad-led lighting included remarks from Gov. Josh Shapiro and other officials stressing religious freedom and resilience after the attack in Australia.
- Las Vegas held city and county menorah ceremonies under heightened security, with police increasing patrols at houses of worship and organizers calling for visibility over fear.
- Australia’s prime minister said the Bondi Beach festival shooting was motivated by Islamic State ideology, a finding referenced at several U.S. events that incorporated moments of remembrance.
- Large public celebrations continued, including Chabad of New Mexico’s giant menorah lighting with a concert and balloon glow in Albuquerque, alongside local gatherings from Des Moines to the Phoenix area.
- Holiday commerce remained brisk as Judaica retailers highlighted both traditional and playful, child-friendly menorahs, candles and host gifts for the eight-night festival through Dec. 22.