Celebrating Hanukkah at Aviva Senior Life

Each year, Hanukkah brings warmth, joy, and togetherness to Jewish communities around the world—and here at Aviva Senior Life in Sarasota, it’s a special time to connect with tradition, friends, and family. This year, the eight-day Festival of Lights begins at sundown on Sunday, December 14, 2025, and continues through Monday, December 22, 2025.

The Story of Hanukkah

Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE. After reclaiming the Temple, the Maccabees found only enough consecrated oil to keep the menorah’s flame burning for one day—but miraculously, it lasted for eight. This enduring story of faith and resilience is celebrated through lighting the menorah, reciting blessings, singing songs, and enjoying festive foods.

Traditions That Brighten the Season

At Aviva Senior Life, Hanukkah traditions come alive in ways that are both meaningful and inclusive.

Lighting the Menorah
Each evening of Hanukkah, a new candle is lit on the menorah, accompanied by blessings and songs. On our campus, residents often gather to light the menorah together in community spaces, creating a shared sense of connection.

Delicious Holiday Foods
Food is an essential part of the celebration, with dishes like latkes (crispy potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts) symbolizing the miracle of the oil. Our culinary team prepares traditional favorites for residents to enjoy with friends and neighbors.

Music and Celebration
From lively renditions of “Maoz Tzur” to games of dreidel, Hanukkah at Aviva is filled with music, laughter, and the joy of being together. Residents and guests of all faiths are invited to participate, fostering an environment of inclusivity and shared celebration.

Hanukkah at Aviva Senior Life

As Sarasota’s only rental, not-for-profit senior living campus with a Jewish heritage, Aviva offers residents the opportunity to celebrate Hanukkah in a way that honors tradition while welcoming everyone. Our activities and events are designed to bring residents together—whether for menorah lightings, festive meals, or educational programs exploring the history and meaning of the holiday.

Beyond the celebrations, Hanukkah at Aviva is about embracing the values at the heart of the season: perseverance, hope, and the light we can bring into the lives of others.

An Invitation to Celebrate

Whether you’ve celebrated Hanukkah all your life or are experiencing it for the first time, this holiday offers moments of reflection, joy, and connection. At Aviva, we believe in creating an atmosphere where every resident can share in the warmth of the season.

About Aviva Senior Life

Aviva Senior Life is Sarasota’s only rental, not-for-profit senior living campus offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing—all in one location. Rooted in Jewish values and open to people of all faiths, Aviva provides a vibrant, inclusive environment where traditions are honored and life is celebrated.

Discover the joy of the holidays at Aviva. Learn more about our community and schedule a tour here.