Top 5: Sufganiot style for singles

Drinks at swanky bars, off the wall comedy and pub quizzes are just some of the Hanukka events on offer for singles in J'lem.

By LOREN MINSKY/ ITRAVELJERUSALEM.COM TEAM
Mirror Bar at Mamilla Hotel 311 (photo credit: Courtesy Mamilla Hotel )
Mirror Bar at Mamilla Hotel 311
(photo credit: Courtesy Mamilla Hotel )
There are countless Hanukka-themed events for families, but also a handful of musts for young professional singles in Jerusalem. Below is just a selection of what's on offer for those in their twenties or thirties who want to enjoy the festival in the capital with a touch of sophistication.
1. Trendy Mirror Bar
Swanky singles will enjoy the Hanukka festivities at Mirror Bar in Mamilla Hotel. The bar offers a fun festive menu with a special dish each night over the eight days of Hanukka. A great way to start the night off is by taking part in the magnificent candle lighting ceremony each day at 8:00 p.m. There is limited space so it’s recommended to make reservations in advance.
2. Off the wall comedy
Off the Wall Comedy Basement near the Hamashbir on King George Street is always a great gathering spot for singles. This Thursday, comedian David Kilimnick presents his ‘Frum from Birth: Religious Manifesto’ show from the Aliyah Monologues Series with a Hanukka twist. If you’re in the mood to look at the lighter side of being single and religious in the city, this is the show for you. David addresses the issues of your community, being frum (religious) and the lack of jelly in doughnuts.
3. Charity Event at Wallenberg
Singles over the age of 26 are invited to celebrate the third night of Hanukka and the launch of Jerusalem Charity Events at Wallenberg Club with more than 200 other young professionals. JCE (formerly the JWB) is run by young Jerusalemites and is dedicated to involving as many young professionals as possible in helping local charities, and in this case, the Tishma School and Center for Autism. The party is geared at singles over the age of 26 (ID required at the door). “What could be bad about young beautiful singles coming together for a good cause?” says Yoni (Cantor) Wiseman, one of the chairpersons of the organization. “And they can also bring their married friends as wing men.”
4. Jazz, wine, cheese and chocolate at Psagot Winery
Those interested in experiencing the sophisticated tastes and sounds of Judea and Samaria will enjoy this event on December 26 at the charming Psagot Winery, 20 minutes north of Jerusalem. Transportation is provided to and from Jerusalem by the event organizers, One Israel Fund, and proceeds from the night go to benefit the Kinor David School of Music.
 5. Nefesh ‘b Nefesh Hanukka pub quiz and charity raffle
Spend the last night of Hanukka enjoying a night of competition, laughter, and great prizes. This event is back by popular demand for the fifth year in a row and is geared toward bringing young professionals in their 20s and 30s together. You can form your own team of eight to ten people or simply register alone, take a chance and see who turns out to be on your team. The quiz consists of a number of rounds including interesting questions and challenges – audio visuals, music clips, trivia and more. Questions are easy enough so that everyone can take part, but just hard enough to separate the true champions. Delicious dairy desserts, hot drinks, fruit and wine will be served.
As for doughnuts, they’re everywhere. So grab your friends, head to your favorite bakery and enjoy!
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