World's largest menorah erected in NYC ahead of Hanukkah

Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Workers installed the world's largest menorah Friday near New York City's Central Park in celebration of Hanukkah, which begins this weekend.

The 32-foot-tall, 4,000-pound metal structure was designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam. It's had a spot in front of the Plaza Hotel since it was unveiled in 2005.

The menorah has real oil lamps the Lubavitch Youth Organization, which sponsored the structure, will light each night of Hanukkah. Daily ceremonies will including dancing, singing and Hanukkah treats, the organization said.

This year's eight-day holiday begins Sunday.

"When faced with darkness and hatred, the light of the menorah serves as a symbol of strength and inspiration, democracy and freedom for all people, delivering a timely and poignant message to each person on an individual basis," said Rabbi Shmuel M. Butman, director of Lubavitch Youth Organization.

The Guinness Book of World Records recognized Agam's creation as the largest menorah in the world on Dec. 29, 2006.

This year's lighting schedule is:

-- 5:30 p.m. Sunday

-- 5:30 p.m. Monday

-- 5:30 p.m. Tuesday

-- 5:30 p.m. Wednesday

-- 5:30 p.m. Thursday

-- 3:30 p.m. Dec. 7

-- 8:30 p.m. Dec. 8

-- 5:30 p.m. Dec. 9