'We are strong': Thousands celebrate first night of Hanukkah at Bayshore Mall

 

GLENDALE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A week of holiday celebrations.

Christmas is seven days away, but the Jewish observance of Hanukkah started tonight, on Dec. 18.

It comes at a time when antisemitism returned to the news.

Hundreds and hundreds of people came out to Bayshore Mall on Sunday, Dec. 18, despite the cold, to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah.

"Happy Hanukkah."

A joy-filled evening.

"Take a look around, look at these people who are enjoying, who are celebrating the fact we're here in America," said CEO of Lubavitch of Wisconsin Rabbi Mendel Schmotkin.

Brightened with singing and dancing -- and candlelight from the Menorah.

"Everybody coming out here, yes it's cold but that's the message of Hanukkah, we warm up the cold night," said Rabbi Mendel Schmotkin.

The 2,000-year-old Jewish holiday -- highlighting unity and inspiration.

Darkness at a time when the Jewish community is under attack.

An anti-defamation league audit released in April, noting a 34% increase in antisemitic crimes from 2020. That was the highest total since the ADL began tracking the statistic in 1979.

"The Jewish community is here, we are proud, we are strong and we are standing up to fight antisemitism," said Co-director of Chabad of the Eastside Mushka Lein.

Many using holiday as a reminder that a light of hope will shine brighter than hate.

"Judaism is my whole life and I’m just so proud and joyful to be part of this community." "We love the connection I love being Jewish. Our community is great it’s really special. We’re all like a family we’re all together.”

The holiday celebrations will continue over the next seven days.