Hanukkah Candle Lit at Steintor Plaza - Why No Official Event with the City?

A single Hanukkah candle was lit at Steintor in Halle (Saale) on Thursday evening. The quiet ceremony honoured the 15 victims of the Sydney terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration. It marked the first time the festival of lights was publicly observed in the city.

The event stood in stark contrast to other German cities, where Hanukkah is celebrated with official ceremonies. Berlin, Düsseldorf, Bochum, Vienna, and Leipzig all host public festivities, often attended by mayors. Even smaller cities like Münster and Chemnitz organise public candle lightings or cultural events.

In Halle, however, this candle lighting was the only public observance of Hanukkah in 2025. No official explanation has been given for the absence of a larger celebration. Igor Matviyets, a member of Halle’s Jewish community, pointed out possible venues for future events, such as the university or city hall.

Matviyets also expressed hope that next year could bring a more inclusive approach. His comments followed criticism that Halle’s Jewish community had been overlooked during the holiday season.

The candle at Steintor served as both a memorial and a first for Halle. While other cities embrace Hanukkah with public gatherings, Halle’s Jewish community now looks ahead. Plans for a more visible celebration in 2026 may reshape how the festival is recognised in the city.