ST. LOUIS – A towering symbol of light and resilience took center stage in downtown St. Louis as members and friends of the Jewish faith gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah beneath the glow of a 29-foot menorah.

Christmas marked the beginning of Hanukkah, as dozens at Kieler Plaza witnessed the lightning of the Staenberg Menorah, the tallest Menorah west of the Mississippi River.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Rabbi Yosef Landa, regional director of the Chabad of Greater St. Louis, who spoke about the significance of the menorah and its message of hope and resilience.

"This event is coming on Hannukah. It's the tallest and the oldest that we have on this side of the Mississippi. It's a wonderful manifestation and celebration of religious liberties, which is the hallmark of America. It's a beautiful thing," he said.

As the sunset, the anticipation grew, and Rabbi Landa led the ceremonial lighting of the first candle. Traditional Jewish songs filled the air as the crowd joined in with smiles and cheers.

"The Hannukah light on the Menorah gives us a great deal of hope. There is a lot of darkness out there and light is something that is very empowering, very encouraging and uplifting because light always, always prevails over darkness," Landa said. 

The celebration included music, Chanukah glow wristbands, treats, and traditional songs.  Organizers invite everyone to join the celebration and experience the spirit of Hanukkah throughout the week.

The Menorah will be lit each night at 5:30 p.m. for the next eight days, until Jan. 1, 2025. The event is free and open to the public.