By Dan Wing

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A couple dozen families gathered in Rittenhouse Square Sunday evening for the annual lighting of the menorah.

Festive music played as a number of kids watched a juggler entertain and interact with the crowd, before Rabbi Yochonon Goldman led the group in prayer and the lighting of the menorah.

“It’s really beautiful to be able to celebrate Hanukkah in such a public way,” Goldman says, “with so many people joining for the celebration.”

Rabbi Goldman says its great to see so many people take pride in their religion…

“Every year we see more and more people coming out to celebrate,” he says. “We’re lucky tonight about the weather. It held up.”

Others were just happy to meet some new people.

“It’s nice to get a sense of community,” says Sharon, “and celebrate the holiday with our neighbors.”

The event was organized by JewishPhilly.org and Friends of Rittenhouse Square.  They say it has gotten bigger in each of its 13 years.