Editing Public Menorah Lighting (section)

==== The Menorah at the White House ====
Biden at a '''central lighting''' at the foot of the White House 5775 (2014)

In 5739 (1978), a public menorah lighting ceremony was held for the first time in Lafayette Park, across from the White House in Washington, organized by Rabbi Avraham Shemtov. United States President Jimmy Carter participated in the ceremony. The Rebbe noted the event and its impact in his letter to Jews who opposed the public menorah in their city.

Since then, the event has been held annually with the participation of senior government officials, and the United States Army Orchestra plays Jewish songs. The highest-ranking official honored with lighting the menorah was Vice President Joe Biden in 5775 (2014).