A small group of Jewish residents weathered the cold and rain on Tuesday night, coming together to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah by lighting the ceremonial menorah at Railroad Plaza.

"[The ceremony] started with Mike DiNunzio going to a friend of his -- Dalzk Feith -- who was a concentration camp survivor and wealthy businessman who is since deceased," said Alan Gold, who has coordinated the lighting for more than a decade.  "[Feith] gave $50,000 to construct the menorah and sponsor it every year so we wouldn't need to rely on public funds."

Prior to the lighting, the group huddled underneath a tent, singing holiday-themed songs before saying a few prayers. 

Afterwards, two extremely excited children raced to the electric plug to light the menorah.

"It's a nice little gesture for people in the community to come to and enjoy, even though this is not a holiday that has any religious significance," said Gold.  "Hanukkah isn't even in the Bible, but it's come to symbolize that we should stand up for what is right."

"Plus, it's important to compete with Christmas," said Gold. 

In the event you missed the ceremony, the menorah is located above the stage area of Railroad Plaza. Keeping with tradition, a new candle will be lit each night throughout Hanukkah.