Chanukah’s eight nights will begin in the community “Menorah in the D” attracts metro Detroiters downtown to Campus Martius at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 2.

To help observe the traditional Jewish holiday’s eight nights, eight Michigan residents will be honored at what’s also the eighth annual celebration. “Menorah in the D” is designed to help celebrate encouragement, love and positivity, organizers say.

“We take strength from the menorah, always increasing in light, as the best possible way to combat the darkness that swirls around us,” says Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, spiritual director and founder of The Shul in West Bloomfield, host of the program. “On each of the eight nights of Chanukah, we add another candle, generating more and more light. Like a flaming candle, all you need to do is touch another person with an act of kindness and sincerity, and their flame will be ignited as well.”

Honorees recognized as local contributors to Jewish culture include Ariella Bednarsh, Martin Abel, Brandon Faulk, Rachel Lutz, Dr. Jacob Parzen, Aaron Gendelman, Dr. Mark Borovoy and Dr. Erika Bocknek. Bocknek, whose uncle, Barry Werber survived the recent Tree of Life synagogue shootings in Pittsburgh, is an educational psychology professor at Wayne State University. The 11 victims of the synagogue killings will be remembered at “Menorah in the D.”

Family activities, food and lighting of the steel and glass menorah are all scheduled as part of the festivities.

Partners include the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit and Chabad of Greater Downtown Detroit, DTE Energy, Quicken Loans and other sponsors.

“The DTE Energy Foundation is passionate about making a positive impact in the communities where we live and serve, and we’re proud to support this magical evening,” says Lynette Dowler, president of the DTE Energy Foundation.

For more information visit menorahinthed.com.