This past Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Phoenix Zoo radiated with community spirit and the glow of thousands of lights as we celebrated Jewish Community Night at ZooLights. The evening brought together more than 400 attendees of all ages to enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with music, Hanukkah crafts, face painting, glow-in-the-dark games, and a meaningful community Havdalah ceremony led by BBYO teens.
The Center for Jewish Philanthropy hosted this unforgettable event, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for families and friends to unite in celebration of the holiday season. Guests were greeted by volunteers who guided them into a private area alive with festive activities and joyful energy.
One of the night’s highlights was the delightful face painting by Storybook Entertainment, generously sponsored by Jewish Free Loan. Talented artists transformed children’s faces into playful masterpieces, adding a touch of magic to the celebration.
Miss Marcy from PJ Library offered hands-on fun with Hanukkah slap bracelet crafts and shared an inviting display of Hanukkah books, creating a cozy corner for families to explore in the PJ Library tent. Sapir, Greater Phoenix’s shlichah, added to the excitement by hosting Hanukkah trivia games that tested everyone’s knowledge.
The photo booth, provided by Picture This AZ!, was a favorite throughout the night as friends and families captured special moments together.
Rachel’s Young At Art Studio provided guests the opportunity to get artistic with wooden dreidels to decorate, Hanukkah placemats to color, and dreidel-shaped sun catchers to create during the evening. This Craft Tent was sponsored by Congregation Kehillah and Temple Solel.
Music provided by Event Smart Productions, filled the air, creating a lively and celebratory atmosphere in The Desert Tents. Guests laughed and played glow-in-the-dark games in the Game Tent, sponsored by The Solel Preschool and Cogir, while enjoying treats from a kosher snack table sponsored by Aabsolutely Organized.
At 7:30PM, the evening culminated in a beautiful Havdalah ceremony led by BBYO teens. This moment of community reflection under the twinkling lights left a lasting impression on everyone who participated.
The night was filled with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt connections. Families expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather in such a magical setting, emphasizing the positive impact events like these have on fostering community belonging and pride.
This year’s Jewish Community Night at ZooLights was a resounding success, creating cherished memories and strengthening bonds among attendees. As the lights dimmed and the evening concluded, the spirit of unity and joy lingered, leaving everyone with unforgettable moments under the glowing lights of the Phoenix Zoo.
We’d love to see the night through your eyes! Please send us your favorite photos from the event. As a token of our appreciation, everyone who submits photos will be entered into a raffle to win a set of exclusive Diamondbacks hats featuring Hebrew lettering.
Submit your photos by Monday, December 30 to engagement@phoenixcjp.org for your chance to win.
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