Chanukah celebration?

[elycelynne]

I just realized that I'll be onboard the Westerdam for the start of Chanukah and was wondering what, if anything, was usually done to celebrate it on HAL ships?

[Native Floridian]

On past cruises there was a rabbi on board and services each night. Would expect the same on the Westerdam

[mamaofami]

I know someone who is a Cantor and who has had a contract on HAL at Chanukah and leads services . This year she'll be on a different line, but I would bet HAL has someone if they can get them. Try calling ship's services and ask.

[suse]

absolutely. How fun would it be otherwise?

[baggal]

Last year on the Eurodam they provided a menorah and candles each night in a specific location, but prayers were performed by "interested passengers," and not a member of the clergy.

[mommyto2girls]

We have not been on HAL for Chanukah but have been on Carnival. They had wonderful candle lightings and latkes and brisket. It was very nice I am sure HAL does the same. At least I hope they do. Have a great cruise!

[bonsat]

hanukkah is not a holy day and therefore does not require the services of either a rabbi or a cantor. it is a holiday and should be a fun celebration for all.

[mamaofami]

Originally Posted by bonsat

hanukkah is not a holy day and therefore does not require the services of either a rabbi or a cantor. it is a holiday and should be a fun celebration for all.

True, and anyone can sing the blessings for the Hanukkah candles. It can be done as a group or individually. I've heard of some ships that let you light a menorah at the dining room table. Other people bring a paper or velco menorah.

[bonsat]

Originally Posted by mamaofami

True, and anyone can sing the blessings for the Hanukkah candles. It can be done as a group or individually. I've heard of some ships that let you light a menorah at the dining room table. Other people bring a paper or velco menorah.

i don't think i'd go that far. it is a holiday invented for younger children which i don't have anymore. nor am i traveling with grandkids though i wish i had some. each year i light a menorah the first night, perhaps the second and then seem to forget about the later nights. i'd be content with some potato pancakes and gold coins on my pillow, lol.

[mommyto2girls]

Originally Posted by bonsat

i don't think i'd go that far. it is a holiday invented for younger children which i don't have anymore. nor am i traveling with grandkids though i wish i had some. each year i light a menorah the first night, perhaps the second and then seem to forget about the later nights. i'd be content with some potato pancakes and gold coins on my pillow, lol.

I completely agree there is no need for a Rabbi or a Cantor but to say Chanukah was invented for younger children is a huge WOW to me. There are many people on these boards who have limited or no knowledge of Chanukah and I would prefer you not try to educate them wth falsehoods. If it is your opinion then so be it, however state that it is just your opinion. Young children or no young children this tradition was not invented. We celebrate our religion and our heritage regardless of age.

[elycelynne]

Originally Posted by mommyto2girls

We have not been on HAL for Chanukah but have been on Carnival. They had wonderful candle lightings and latkes and brisket. It was very nice I am sure HAL does the same. At least I hope they do. Have a great cruise!

Wow, that's impressive. I didn't even imagine that any cruise lines did special cooking (were the latkes and brisket any good?). I was just hoping there was at least going to be candle lighting in some form.

While I agree that Chanukah definitely wasn't "invented" (for children or otherwise), I think it's fair to say that it's a holiday that's evolved into something more fun for children than most other Jewish holidays.

[mommyto2girls]

It was very good food and I agree with you on all counts about the holiday. The candle lighting was very nice. You will have a great time.