White House Hanukkah Party on Thursday: Chag Sameach

2010 OBAMA WHITE HOUSE HANUKKAH PARTY FLASHBACK At the White House Hanukkah party: Chicagoans Rabbi Capers C. Funnye, Jr., Marcia Balonick and Jane Ramsey (photo by Lynn Sweet)

WASHINGTON–President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle are hosting 24 holiday parties this season–with a distinct Christmas theme. On Thursday–on the sixth night of Hanukkah–the Obama White House hosts a festival reception with the invitee list mainly Jewish Americans. Expect little latkes to be served.

Hanukkah messages from the Obama White House 2009-2012 are HERE.

The Obama 2012 Hanukkah message:

Michelle and I send our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah around the world.

This Hanukkah season we remember the powerful story of the Maccabees who rose up to liberate their people from oppression. Upon discovering the desecration of their Temple, the believers found only enough oil to light the lamp for one night. And yet it lasted for eight.

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the faith and customs of the Jewish people, but it is also an opportunity for people of all faiths to recognize the common aspirations we share. This holiday season, let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy, and remain mindful of those who are suffering. And let us reaffirm our commitment to building a better, more complete world for all.

From our family to the Jewish Community around the world, Chag Sameach.