Hanukkah festivities light up Jerusalem as the Jewish holiday begins on Wednesday. This year marks a rare convergence, as Hanukkah and Christmas share the same date for the first time since 2005.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Jewish holiday. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The festival lasts for eight days, symbolising the miracle of the menorah.

The Chabad Lubavitch Jewish Center of Merrimack Valley held its annual Grand Menorah Lighting at The Park, 36 Bartlet St., on Thursday to celebrate Hanukkah .

The holiday, which is eight days and nights, runs through Jan. 2 this year and celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem.

This is the 14th year Menorah in the D has taken place in downtown Detroit, and organizers said they hope this tradition continues to grow year after year.