This is the 14th year Menorah in the D has taken place in downtown Detroit, and organizers said they hope this tradition continues to grow year after year.

On Wednesday, the Jewish community lit the first of eight candles to celebrate Hanukkah. Rabbi Yanky Baron with Chabad of Ellicott City said the Jewish community hopes to light a path of unity and freedom in a world of darkness.

The 8-day festival began on the same day as Christmas this year – the first time the two holidays have coincided since 2005.

When Kai Cutler, age 4, walks into his living room, he sees a Christmas tree topped with a glittering star. That ornament is out of reach, but another decoration nearby hangs at eye level: A fabric menorah with Velcro candle flames.

The first night of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is underway. On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit from the eight candle menorah and there is a story behind this. The holiday of Hanukkah celebrates the victory over the Syrian Greeks and the light of the menorah that burned for eight days with just a little bit of oil.

Jewish festival of lights, begins at sundown on Wednesday, Dec. 25, in 2024 with lighting of the first candle.