Detroit’s Largest Hanukkah Event Illuminates Campus Martius
The 15th annual Menorah in the D features live music, family festivities, and a special appearance by Ella Ben-Ami and her freed parents from Hamas captivity

On Sunday, December 14, 2025, thousands are expected to gather at Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit for Chabad’s 15th annual Menorah in the D — one of Michigan’s largest and most cherished Hanukkah celebrations.

What began in 2011 with just a few hundred attendees has grown into a powerful citywide tradition featuring live music, festive foods, family activities, and the lighting of a 26-foot-tall menorah, believed to be the largest in Michigan.

Hanukkah recalls how Jews fought to preserve their identity under Greek oppression. While menorah lightings are traditionally held at home, Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, executive director of Chabad Lubavitch of Michigan, explains that bringing this celebration into the heart of Detroit sends a powerful message of visibility, resilience, and unity for the entire region.

Guests can enjoy latkes, donuts, crafts, hot cocoa, live entertainment, photo opportunities, giveaways, and special presentations from local dignitaries. The lighting ceremony brings Metro Detroiters of all backgrounds together in the spirit of Hanukkah — celebrating freedom, community, and the triumph of light over darkness.

“Each year, Menorah in the D reminds us that even a small light can dispel great darkness,” Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov said. “This celebration embodies the strength and unity of Detroit’s diverse community.”

This year’s event will also feature Ella Ben-Ami, 23, who traveled from Kibbutz Be’eri in Israel. Many will remember Ella’s visit two years ago, when she carried a heartbreaking personal plea to bring home her parents, who had been taken hostage by Hamas. She returns to Detroit this Hanukkah with her freed parents —Raz and her husband, Ohad, were both kidnapped by Hamas terrorists from their home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7, 2023. Ella Ben Ami, survived the attack by hiding in a safe room for 15 hours. Raz was released from captivity as part of a deal between Israel and Hamas in late November 2023, after 49 days as a hostage. Ohad Ben Ami remained a hostage in Gaza for 491 days. He was released in a separate hostage deal and reunited with his wife and three daughters, including Ella, in February 2025.

For Ella, Hanukkah’s message of light overcoming darkness takes on profound new meaning. She is coming to express her gratitude to the Detroit community for its prayers, support, and belief in miracles.

Organized by Chabad of Michigan, Menorah in the D continues to symbolize resilience, visibility, and hope for both the Jewish community and the broader Detroit region.

Event Details:
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Menorah lighting at sundown)
Location: Campus Martius Park, Downtown Detroit
Cost: Free and open to the public

Menorah in the D has become one of Detroit’s signature holiday traditions, joining the city’s lineup of winter festivities while celebrating the vibrancy of Jewish culture in the heart of downtown.

For more information, volunteer opportunities, or to watch the livestream, visit www.menorahinthed.com.