The Lighting of the 50th & France District was extra bright this year! On November 30, 2024 the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree was joined by a new six-foot menorah and three-foot dreidel which are placed a few feet away from the tree in the district. During Small Business Saturday festivities, the menorah was fully lit and will remain illuminated throughout the holiday season. On the first night of Hanukkah, the lights will be turned off and candles will be lit each night during Hanukkah.

This initiative is part of a broader campaign by the Edina Multicultural Collaborative, comprised of a diverse group of Edina residents. This initiative celebrates the cultures that make up the Edina community, and its founders believe that art and symbols can serve as powerful tools for inclusivity and understanding.

The Hanukkah display was co-created by Heather Edelson, Hennepin County Commissioner and co-founder of the Edina Multicultural Collaborative, and Lauren Sundick, an Edina resident and sister of Parkwood Knolls resident Brooke Moss.

The initiative was sparked when Lauren and Heather began discussing possibilities after the holiday season last year. Inspired by her children’s questions about the diversity of cultures during holidays, Lauren reached out to Heather to collaborate. Together, they sought to create spaces for families and individuals of all backgrounds to share and celebrate their traditions.

“My family grew up here and we never had a Hanukkah display. I’m happy that our children have symbols that reflect their heritage and have a place to visit during the holiday season. We’re excited for such a beautiful display in downtown Edina,” said Lauren.

The Collaborative is set to organize a series of three meaningful cultural celebrations throughout 2025, allowing residents to experience and learn about various traditions while fostering a sense of belonging among all Edina citizens.

 

The initiative is supported by the Edina Community Foundation and the 50th & France Business Association, with funding completely sourced from community donations. Families in the community have funded this display and other initiatives.

The response from Edina residents has been overwhelmingly supportive. Lauren noted the positive impact of these celebrations, stating, “Responses have been so supportive, so validating.”

The Edina Multicultural Collaborative is off to an inspiring start. If you would like to learn more, contact the Edina Community Foundation.