Chanukka Celebrations in Stockholm Signal Resilience Amid Terror Threats

Hundreds gathered in central Stockholm at Norrmalmstorg on December 16, 2025, to celebrate the Jewish festival of Chanukka, standing firm in solidarity despite the shadow of recent terrorist violence targeting Jewish communities internationally. This year's ceremonies occurred just days after a deadly terror attack during a Chanukka celebration in Sydney, Australia, which resulted in 15 fatalities.

The event, organized by Chabad in Stockholm, was marked by the lighting of the third candle of the chanukkiah by 99-year-old Leon Weintraub, a Holocaust survivor who escaped Auschwitz. His participation underscored the enduring spirit and historical resilience of the Jewish community.

Attendees, including community members and political figures such as Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Sweden's Minister for Civil Defense, and Simona Mohamsson, leader of the Liberals, emphasized the necessity of combating the escalating antisemitism present across society—from streets to schools and workplaces. Mohamsson highlighted that antisemitism"is growing and visible everywhere."

Anna Gorsetman, age 77, shared, "We must fight to show that we are not afraid. This good and light must win. We cannot be afraid." Another participant, Louise Steinhoff, expressed that succumbing to fear would mean terrorists have succeeded, while Daniel, 50, reflected on the Sydney tragedy as shocking and a depiction of the normalization of antisemitism.

The gathering represented a powerful communal message that fear will not disrupt traditions or silence voices, affirming the community’s unity and commitment to life and light in the face of terror.

Overall, the Stockholm Chanukka celebration demonstrated a collective refusal to yield to hatred, instead highlighting resilience and hope amid challenging times.