HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - The Holyoke community came together for their annual menorah lighting. Dozens of people gathered outside Holyoke city hall to commemorate the occasion, hosted by the Congregation Sons of Zion. For the 9th annual Hanukkah observance, traditional songs were sung, and children were given dreidels and gelt. This event served as a reminder of the power of unity and spreading light in difficult times. "It's a message that you're never to give up hope, that things will get better. And we certainly hope this will happen for our state of Israel, which is undergoing a big strain," said President of Congregation Sons of Zion, Joanne Saltman. The lighting of the Menorah will take place each night at Holyoke City Hall. Local News Headlines Driving risks to be aware of ahead of New Years Eve Holyoke community comes together for 9th annual Hanukkah Observance Springfield honors second night of Hanukkah Mayor Sarno proclaims Kwanzaa week in Springfield WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.