The National Hanukkah Menorah was illuminated during a special ceremony on the White House grounds Sunday, Dec. 6, the first night of Hanukkah.
Thousands of people attended the annual event, which took place on the Ellipse.
Notable dignitaries, including President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Cabinet secretaries, Members of Congress, ambassadors, diplomats and Jewish communal leaders have attended and participated in past celebrations.
White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough attended this year’s event. President Obama was preparing for his Oval Office address, later Sunday night.
Following the ceremony, those in attendance were treated to hot traditional Hanukkah latkes, or potato pancakes, and donuts. Free personal menorah kits and dreidels also were distributed.
