The lighting of the Silber Family Agam Menorah in the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza is an annual tradition. This year, the first candle will be lit on Dec. 14. (photo from Lubavitch BC)
The lighting of the Silber Family Agam Menorah in the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza is an annual tradition. This year, the first candle will be lit on Dec. 14.
As the first night of Hanukkah approaches, the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza will once again welcome the annual lighting of the Silber Family Agam Menorah. Rising at the corner of Georgia and Hornby streets, this work of public art has become an enduring symbol of Jewish pride, resilience and unity for more than three decades.
Designed and built in 1991 by internationally renowned Israeli artist and sculptor Yaacov Agam, the menorah was commissioned by Fred Silber and the Silber family for Chabad Lubavitch of British Columbia. More than a sculpture, it was envisioned as a joyful and unapologetic statement of Jewish presence in the centre of downtown Vancouver. Since its debut, the menorah has returned each year with ceremony and celebration, illuminating the city skyline with its vibrancy and timeless message: that even in the darkest seasons, the light of Jewish identity continues to shine.
What began as a family’s dedication has grown into one of the largest annual Jewish gatherings in the province. Each year, hundreds of community members, friends, supporters and neighbours bundle up and fill the plaza for the first lighting of Hanukkah. Children clutch chocolate gelt and jelly donuts, elders share stories of holidays past, and young families, students and professionals gather to feel connected and uplifted.
Distinguished guests from across the civic and political landscape will join the festivities Dec. 14, reflecting the wide recognition the Agam Menorah lighting has earned as a Vancouver tradition. Member of Parliament Wade Grant will attend on behalf of the Canadian government and MP Melissa Lantsman will represent the official opposition. Their presence underscores not only the event’s Jewish significance, but also its role as a valued civic moment celebrating inclusiveness and the strength of community bonds.
“Each candle we kindle is more than a flame – it’s a statement of Jewish pride and a reminder that light, unity and hope will always overcome darkness,” said Rabbi Dovid Rosenfeld, director of Chabad Lubavitch BC. “This menorah has become part of Vancouver’s identity, and this celebration brings our entire community together in a beautiful and powerful way.”
The evening will feature traditions that light up the plaza each year: chocolate gelt, donuts, music, dancing, and greetings exchanged among old friends and new faces.
The message of the Silber Family Agam Menorah is as relevant today as it was 30 years ago. In a world often challenged by uncertainty, its light stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the Jewish people and the importance of gathering publicly, proudly and joyfully.
As the candles are kindled once more, the entire community is invited to join in this Vancouver tradition. The gathering on Dec. 14 starts at 3:30 p.m. For more about Chabad Lubavitch of British Columbia’s holiday events, lightings and activities, go to lubavitchbc.com.
– Courtesy Lubavitch BC