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Air traffic control lets super-bright menorah beams light up sky over Trafalgar Square
JLC gets permission from Civil Aviation Authority for rays reaching hundreds of metres up to celebrate Channukah
December 7, 2025 17:12
JLC gets permission from Civil Aviation Authority for rays reaching hundreds of metres up to celebrate Channukah
December 7, 2025 17:12Channukah celebrations will brighten up the evening as never before this year, thanks to upward beams of light so powerful permission had to be granted from air traffic control officials.
The rays with luminosity of 260,000 candles are being projected into the sky from London’s Trafalgar Square, site of the menorah provided by the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC).
The display will start with a single 800 watt high-intensity searchlight as Channukah begins next Sunday evening, building up one by one to a total of eight over the course of the festival.
In operation from dusk until 11pm, the beams are expected to reach up hundreds of metres into the night sky and will in theory be viewable from overhead planes and from a great distance across London.
The JLC successfully liaised with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to obtain permission for the display.
The eight metre-high menorah is Europe’s tallest, and stands seven metres wide.
Standing next to Nelson’s Column, it is slightly smaller than the JLC chanukiah which stood in Trafalgar Square last year, having been adapted to withstand higher wind speeds.
The menorah was designed by Richard Robins of Lit Event Group.
JLC head of operations Natasha Glass said: “This year, with the London Menorah moving beside the iconic Nelson’s Column, we set out to create something truly spectacular for London's Jewish community.
“It also allows the wider public to share in the celebration, fostering understanding and highlighting London’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the freedom to express one’s faith openly.”
The menorah will be in place from Thursday 11 December until Tuesday 23 December.
On Tuesday 16 December, the JLC will host ChanukahLIVE! from 5pm to 7pm in Trafalgar Square, featuring live music and fresh doughnuts as well as the lighting of the menorah.
Glass said that the event will be “a vibrant, uplifting celebration bringing people of all ages together… it’s designed to be both joyful and welcoming”, and “a chance for families, friends, and visitors to experience the warmth and energy of Chanukah in a dynamic, modern way”.
She said: “Chanukah is ultimately about spreading light and everyone, regardless of background, can take part in that message. Each night’s candle represents the idea that even a small flame can spark hope, courage, and kindness in the world.
“At a time when many people are seeking connection, community, and positivity, the celebrations across London offer a reminder that light is strongest when we share it.
“We encourage everyone to come along, take part, and help brighten the city together.”
Last year, the menorah in Trafalgar Square had to be taken down temporarily because of concerns over strong winds. A festival greeting was instead projected onto Nelson’s Column.
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