Is the talk live or pre-recorded?

The talk is live, allowing for real-time interaction during the Q&A session.

Do I need any special software to join?

No special software is required; a modern web browser with internet access is sufficient.

Will the talk be recorded for later viewing?

Typically, recordings are not provided, so attending live is recommended.

Is there any cost to attend?

This is a pay-what-you-wish event, so you can choose your level of support.

Can I ask questions during the talk?

Yes, there will be an interactive segment for attendees to ask questions.

Is the talk suitable for children?

The talk is primarily designed for adults and older teens interested in history and culture.

Explore the Rich Heritage of Menorahs: A Virtual Talk from Eldridge Street | Events

Step inside a world of history and culture without leaving your home with the "Virtual Exhibition Talk: Lighting the World—Menorahs Around the Globe." Hosted on December 10th by Dr. Aaron Feingold, this engaging virtual experience shines a light on the artistic and spiritual legacy of menorahs from Jewish communities worldwide. While this event is online, its connection to the historic Museum at Eldridge Street in New York City grounds the talk in a place brimming with Jewish heritage and architectural wonder.

Located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the Eldridge Street Synagogue is not only a stunning landmark but also a symbol of enduring cultural identity. Its restored interiors with intricate stained glass and ornate woodwork serve as a powerful backdrop for this exploration of menorahs they house. Menorahs, with their diverse designs and materials, tell stories of faith, migration, and craftsmanship passed through generations.

Dr. Aaron Feingold, an expert collector and historian, provides intimate insights into the significance of each menorah in his collection. From traditional styles to unique adaptations reflecting local customs around the globe, the presentation reveals a rich tapestry of Jewish life and resilience. Whether you are a history buff, design enthusiast, or simply curious, this talk offers a deep dive into how these ceremonial lamps illuminate not just space, but cultural narratives.

This virtual offering stands out by merging technology with tradition, making heritage accessible beyond physical boundaries. It’s an opportunity to engage with a vital aspect of Jewish culture, complemented by the evocative ambiance of Eldridge Street’s National Historic Landmark venue. As the holiday season approaches, understanding these sacred objects adds meaningful context to the celebrations.

For travelers visiting New York, the Museum at Eldridge Street itself offers a unique experience—exploring this reimagined 1887 synagogue sheds light on immigrant stories and craftsmanship. Booking this virtual talk is a perfect preview or accompaniment to a future visit.

Dive into this vibrant cross-section of history, art, and faith from wherever you are and celebrate the illuminating legacy of menorahs around the world.

About Museum at Eldridge Street

Museum at Eldridge Street preserves and interprets the Eldridge Street Synagogue, a landmark on Manhattan’s Lower East Side established in 1887. The museum offers a range of guided and self-guided experiences, including docent-led discovery tours, self-guided visits, architecture and anniversary building tours, virtual talks, and multilingual programs.
Regular offerings highlight walking tours that explore Jewish history across neighborhoods such as the Lower East Side, Greenwich Village, and Historic Jewish Harlem, as well as themed walks about activism, love and courtship, and the Jewish gangsters of Lower Manhattan. Monthly Spanish-guided tours are held every last Monday of the month, and special events include concerts, exhibition talks, and food-focused walks like the Eldridge Eats Food Tour.
The museum presents virtual programming, including seminars tied to exhibitions such as the Lower East Side in 1975 photography project and virtual book talks. The Anniversary Building Tour celebrates the synagogue with artifacts, documents, and images presented by guides like Scott Brevda.
By combining historic preservation, community programming, and educational tours, the institution supports research and public engagement without relying on conjecture. Visitors can expect factual interpretation rooted in primary sources, curated exhibitions, and live-led programs produced by professional staff and volunteer docents. Located in New York, New York, the Museum at Eldridge Street serves both local audiences and visitors seeking authentic stories of Jewish immigrant experience, architecture, and cultural history on the Lower East Side. Programs include guided education for schools, public lectures, family activities, and seasonal events that deepen neighborhood connections and archival access.