Community members gathered in downtown Buckhannon on Wednesday, Dec. 17, for a Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremony that was rescheduled from the weekend due to extreme cold weather.

Mayor Robbie Skinner welcomed attendees and spoke about the significance of the event for the Buckhannon community.

“Tonight we celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, a holiday that reminds us of perseverance, faith and hope,” Skinner said. “The story of Hanukkah tells us that even in times of hardship and uncertainty, a small light can overcome great darkness.

Skinner said the ceremony is emblematic of Buckhannon’s commitment to bringing together people of different cultures and faiths.

“As we light the menorah, we are doing more than honoring a tradition,” he said. “We are affirming the values that matter deeply to Buckhannon, including religious freedom, mutual respect and the belief that our differences make us stronger. Our city is at its best when we come together, listen to one another, support one another and celebrate the many cultures and traditions of those who call Buckhannon home.”

Skinner thanked event organizer Daya Wright for coordinating the ceremony and recognized the role the event plays in fostering community connection.

“Gatherings like this show that unity and community are not just ideas, but lived experiences,” he said.

Wright shared remarks highlighting the historical meaning of Hanukkah and the importance of light and perseverance. She explained the story of the Maccabees and the oil that burned for eight days when there was only enough for one, which is central to the celebration.

“This is why we have Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights,” Wright said. “We celebrate Hanukkah to remember the perseverance of the Jewish people and the light that endured through difficult circumstances. Tonight’s event is a reminder that Buckhannon is a community where differences are embraced and celebrated.”

The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the menorah and a community gathering at Jawbone Park, complete with donuts, hot apple cider and ring pop dreidels.