A VARIETY of events are being planned across Barnet in celebration of Chanukah, the eight-day Jewish "Festival of Lights", which begins tonight.

The Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Anthony Finn, will attend the celebrations at the lighting of a giant 30ft menorah, thought to be the world's largest, outside Golders Green bus station in North End Road, on Sunday.

On Monday, Mayor Finn will attend a Chanukah reception at the Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and women, in Harmony Way, Hendon.

Deputy Mayor Lisa Rutter will attend Hendon Reform Synagogue in Danescroft Avenue, Hendon for a Chanukah tea party on Tuesday, December 7, while the mayor will attend a Service to the Aged annual party in Golders Green Road.

Celebrations will round off with a final Chanukah candle lighting at Jewish Care in Golders Green Road, Golders Green, on Wednesday, December 8.