Hello, dear friends! I have not been in Kazakhstan for a long time, though I was born in that very country. Now I live in Australia in rather a big city of Melbourne. I miss my country! And to become little closer to my community in Karaganda city, I am writing this article for www.mitsva.kz. It is my Chanukah present for all Kazakhstani Jews.

  Well, let me try to tell you about the way Australian community celebrates this holiday, the jolliest holidays of the Jewish calendar. I have shot Chanukah for local television more than once, and every time looking at the light of Chanukiah through its glass eye my camera became alive. Chanukah differs from all other holidays in its mass character. Huge Kolfield Park of Melbourne near which many Jewish families live is cram-ful during the festival of lights. Preparations start there before the dawn: stage is build, lighting is installed, and sound is checked. As if by magic on the territory of the park appear cafes, booths, and sideshows for children.

  Finally, everything is ready. First guests appear in the park. Jewish melodies are heard from everywhere. Theatrical performance starts on the main stage. Professional actors along with amateur troupes perform sketches about the history of the holiday, the Tradition, and culture of the Jews. Spectators settle themselves on the lawn near the stage. At the same time in divers places of the park art exhibitions, festive lottery, debating societies are opened.

  By the evening honored guests visit the park. Public men, businessmen, patrons of art, famous actors and writers (mostly, Jews, of course) congratulate the Jewish community of Melbourne city. Permanent guest of the holiday, the premier of the state Victoria Mr. Breks takes part in lighting of the Chanukiah with childlike glee. You can hear laughter and Russian speech from everywhere. The celebration lasts till late at night.

Jan Vitebski