Lisa Wolfe-Schacter leading children in song and dance at the Buda Hanukkah Menorah Lighting. Credit: Jonathan Robert Betcher

The 4th Annual Buda Hanukkah Menorah Lighting was held on January 1. 2025 from 5-7 p.m. on Buda’s Main Street by the Gazebo.  

The lighting of the Hanukkah menorah was instigated with permits and city blessings and monies to buy the menorah by resident Robyn Katz Gonzalez four years ago. Last year and this year, Lisa Wolfe-Schacter assumed the role as the event organizer. Rabbi Cantor Marie Betcher has had the honor to light the Menorah for all four years!  

The crowd joined together as Rabbi Marie Betcher lit the menorah for the final night of Hanukkah. Wolfe-Schacter led the children with Hanukkah songs and she secured the musicians, crafts, food, vendors, and more at the Buda Downtown Greenbelt Park.  

As last three years, the mayor and members of Buda City Council were invited as well as other dignitaries. At this year’s event which was held on New Year’s Day, additional celebrations were held for the beginning of 2025!  

1. L to R: Jonathan Betcher, Rabbi Betcher, Sheri Soltes of Service Dogs Inc., Musicians Lorrie Singer, Bradley Kopp, and David Webb. Courtesy: Jonathan Betcher 
2. Rabbi Betcher translating the blessings before Lisa Wolfe-Schacter brings up all the children to sing! Credit: Jonathan Betcher 
3. Rabbi Marie Betcher explaining what Hanukkah is. Credit: Jonathan Betcher 
4. Lisa Wolfe-Schacter and Rabbi Marie Betcher before the lighting. Credit: Jonathan Betcher