Celebrate Hanukkah in Austin

Words by Abby L. Johnson

Five Fun Ways to Celebrate the Festival of Lights this year (December 10-18)

1. With a Drink

Looking for something a little different this year? Kitty Cohen’s, Webberville Road’s poolside patio bar with a sleek 70s Palm Springs aesthetic, has put together a menu of specialty Hanukkah-themed cocktails that are sure to liven up the Festival of Lights’ festivities. For a little bit of whimsy (and a lot of Manischewitz), grab a drink from the ‘Get Lit’ menu from now until December 30. Plus, it’s gelt-free—part of the proceeds for several drinks, including the ‘Oy Fashioned,’ will be donated to the Shalom Jewish Community Center.
2211 Webberville Rd. #3548

2. With Latkes (Potato Pancakes)

While it might be a bit of a schlep, former East Austin food truck, Jewboy Burgers, is a celebration of Jewish and Mexican cuisine and their menu includes some of the best latkes in town. Their unique fusion brings the best out of both traditions. Head over to their location on Airport Boulevard and enjoy a potato pancake on their outdoor patio or inside the socially spacious dining room Tuesday through Sunday. Or try the weekend brunch at the Launderette on Holly Street. Their brunch menu offers latkes served with either crème fraiche or apple sauce.
Jewboy: 5111 Airport Blvd. | Launderette: 2115 Holly St.

3. With Dessert

Hanukkah tradition calls for a plethora of fried foods and that includes desserts. For something sweet, Lola’s Donuts on Manor Road is offering sufganiyot, traditional Israeli jelly-filled donuts. Order ahead of time online for Saturday or Sunday pickup.
2406 Manor Rd. Suite B

4. With Community

Shalom Austin is creatively bringing together community this Hanukkah with virtual candle lighting services. For each night of Hanukkah, this virtual event will shine a spotlight on different Jewish institutions across the city as Austinites celebrate from home. Register online for the Zoom link or join them on Facebook Live.
Online Event

5. With a Laugh

Congregation Agudas Achim is sure to please the whole family with their virtual musical cabaret. ‘Hannukkah at the Goldsteins’ is set to feature members of the congregation performing parodies of popular winter holiday songs. Join in on the lighthearted fun December 13 and 16 at 7 pm via Zoom. Both performances are free to attend, though donations are accepted.
Online Event

Need Dinner Plans for December 24?

Order Kosher Chinese Takeout from The Austin Synagogue before December 16. Choose from stir fry veggies and tofu, Chinese chicken, or pepper steak. All meals include veggie spring rolls, white rice, and fortune cookies and will be available for pickup December 24.