A fire engine decked out in menorahs, dreidels and other Chanukah decorations made history in Simsbury when it joined “Simsbury Celebrates” – an annual holiday event featuring all sorts of entertainers and activities, and culminates in a fire truck parade and fireworks display. For the first time, a Chanukah-themed fire engine joined fire trucks from towns throughout central Connecticut decorated with Christmas themes.

The idea to add a Chanukah fire truck was born at the 2012 event, when members of the Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation–Emek Shalom (FVJC-ES) enjoyed watching the parade, but felt something was missing.  During the subsequent year, the synagogue’s Men’s Club collaborated with the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company to make the addition of Chanukah something special. The Fire Company offered the fire engine from their main station – a great honor! – and helped the Men’s Club decorate the vehicle.

Donors contributed more than $1,400 towards Chanukah decorations, which included two 54-inch lighted menorahs, electric dreidels, and hundreds of feet of blue lights. There was no missing the truck, which could be recognized blocks away.

“The cheering of spectators, Jewish and non-Jewish alike, was energizing,” said Rich Feifer, FVJC-ES Men’s Club president, who was instrumental in making the Chanukah fire truck a reality.