Hanukkah in Philadelphia

Celebrate Hanukkah this year in Philadelphia. With such an eclectic foodie scene and diverse neighborhoods, there will be countless bakeries, restaurants and bars perfect for a seasonal visit with the family.

Start your day in the city at Federal Donuts indulging in an obligatory sufganiyah — the official miniature jelly doughnut of Hanukkah. The fried specialty is available Dec. 4, and can be purchased in boxes of 20 for the family gathering.

Photo: Oleksandra Naumenko | Dreamstime

Head to the City of Brotherly Love for the 15th annual Latkepalooza at the Gershman Y, celebrated Dec. 10. Join nearly 300 guests in celebration of the season and the beloved potato pancake with an assortment of latkes — all provided by top Philadelphia restaurants. Some purveyors this year include Tri Taproom, Aldine, Whestone Tavern, Mission Taqueria, Sabrina’s Café and Estia. Enjoy live music and local entertainers, various festive and family-friendly activities, surprise guests and seasonal events.

Photo: Erix2005 | Dreamstime

Bring latkes to the family gathering from Famous Fourth Street Delicatessen in Queen Village, Philadelphia. Grab traditional menu items to go for the family party, or just stop in for a classic sky-high sandwich platter for lunch. Check out neighboring establishments Murray’s Delicatessen and Hymie’s Merion Delicatessen for more affordable holiday options.

Traveling into the city during Christmas time? Good idea. Philadelphia’s varying neighborhoods offer a variety of fun, food and entertainment during the holidays for all non-Christmas celebrating visitors.

Check out the Moo Shu Jew Show on Christmas Eve in the heart of Chinatown. Reserve your table and head to Ocean Harbor in Chinatown boasting a vast assortment of dim sum and comedy, provided by the Gershman Y for its ninth-year in a row. This unique celebration combines Asian cuisine, Jewish comedy and traditional Chinese for Christmas spirit. After dinner, enjoy stand up from comedians Marla Schultz, Brad Zimmerman and Moody McCarthy.

Tickets range $82–92 at Ocean Harbor on Race Street in Chinatown. The food will not be kosher, but there will be vegetarian options available.