More than 300 people joined Chabad of Kirkland Jewish Community on Dec. 22 for the lighting of a public, nine-foot menorah at Marina Park to mark the beginning of Hanukkah. The lighting was followed by a community-wide celebration.

“The menorah serves as a symbol of Kirkland’s dedication to preserve and encourage the right and liberty of all its citizens to worship God freely, openly, and with pride. This is true especially in America, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution,” Rivkin said in a press release.

Rabbi Chaim S. Rivkin lights the menorah. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo

Mayor Penny Sweet and councilmember Black Neal at the Grand Menorah Lighting at Marina Park on Dec. 22. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo

Community members at Marina Park in Kirkland for the Grand Menorah lighting on Dec. 22. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo

Chabad of Kirkland hosted its annual Grand Menorah Lighting event at Kirkland Marina Park on Dec. 22. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo