WATCH: Berlin Celebrates Hanukkah with Largest Menorah in Europe

The lighting of the central Hanukkah menorah at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate is set to take place with thousands of Jewish residents, senior officials, and prominent figures from the city expected to attend the ceremony.

This year marks the 19th lighting of the grand menorah, an annual tradition led by the city’s rabbi and Chabad emissary, Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal. The ceremony will also be attended by Berlin’s Mayor, Kai Wegner, who will serve as the guest of honor. Rabbi Teichtal expressed the powerful message of the evening, stating, "Especially this year, lighting the Hanukkah light is more important than ever, as it has the power to overcome darkness."

In addition to the central menorah at the Brandenburg Gate, 50 smaller menorahs have been placed in public spaces across the city by Chabad emissaries. Rabbi Teichtal shared his hope for the future, saying, "This year, we have increased the number of menorahs, with the hope and prayer to banish darkness forever."

The lighting ceremony, broadcasted live, is expected to be a poignant reminder of resilience and the enduring Jewish spirit in Berlin.