Over 3,000 years ago, the Jews witnessed the miracle of a small flask of oil in the story of Chanukah. As we all know, something much bigger and grander than their expectations took place.

Something similar took place in Hong Kong this Chanukah. This year’s celebrations were forecast to be smaller than usual, as Chanukah coincided with the winter holidays, when many families were expected to be travelling. The organisers of Chabad’s Chanukah events therefore planned for a much smaller attendance than usual.

So everyone was pleasantly surprised when the expected crowd of 100-200 people quickly grew to over 400. Adults and children alike all enjoyed the exciting carnival (featuring the world’s only latke-producing bicycle!) and the fire-and-light show that preceded the ceremony.

The giant Menorah in Hong Kong is one of thousands lit around the world to bring the message of Chanukah and light to the world. Rising high above the crowd in a crane were Dr Perkin, Antony Greenstein and his son Benjamin – three generations of Jewish men who proudly lit the Menorah this year. For the 31st consecutive year, these flames stood out against the backdrop of the “city of lights” as they shone the message of religious freedom for all to see.