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White House To Light National Menorah

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The National Menorah in Washington, D.C. in 2009.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/newspapers/4183347101/
The National Menorah in Washington, D.C. in 2009.

Thousands are expected on the grounds of the White House for the lighting of the National Menorah.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a celebration of religious freedom and hope. The ceremony to light the giant menorah is set for 4 p.m. Today is the second day of the eight-day holiday.

Festivities include a performance by the United States Navy Band. Latkes, which are potato pancakes, and jelly donuts, will be served. For the little ones, menorah kits and dreidels will be handed out.

Hanukkah commemorates the Jewish Maccabees' military victory over Syrian oppression more than 2,000 years ago. During Hanukkah, Jews celebrate the miracle of light that burned for eight days out of a single-days-worth of oil found in the Temple.

Free tickets to today's menorah lighting ceremony are available online.

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