No tree? No problem: A Phillyist Chanukah

Amidst the nonstop Christmas carols, it's easy to forget that some Philadelphians won't be decorating the tree or waiting for an unknown fat stranger to pop in through a chimney. There's still lots to do around Philly for those who celebrate Chanukah, or if the chimney thing just totally creeps you out. Phillyist presents our short list of Chanukah events around Philadelphia:

Musical Chanukah
Jdub records' approach to Chanukah is "if you don't have a tree, you don't have an excuse." For not getting down with their Jewish artists, we assume; and we're not talking Adam Sandler. Though their December 29 World Cafe Live concert was cancelled, the hip and hilarious Jewish duo The Levees still deserve a listen. Pick up their "Hanukkah Rocks" album for indie rock, Jewish-style. Listen to two songs off The Levees' album here.

Singles Chanukah
Oddly enough, Christmas eve has become a big night for Jewish singles. The Ball, “the nation’s largest Jewish singles event,” hits Philadelphia on December 24. A longtime staple of the New York Jewish singles scene, the Ball could help you with your “meet a nice Jewish boy” New Year’s resolution.

Family Chanukah
For more family-type entertainment, check out Chanukah storytelling at the Oxford Valley Barnes and Noble. By "family-type," Phillyist of course means, "ditch the visiting family for a couple moments of peace browsing the magazines." Tuesday, December 27, 1:30-3:30 pm at the Court at Oxford Valley, 210 Commerce Blvd, Fairless Hills, PA.
More info here.

Cultured Chanukah
And of course, there’s the previously mentioned Being Jewish in Philadelphia party at the National Museum of American Jewish History on December 25th from 12-4 pm.

Classic Chanukah
Still stumped on a (non-)Christmas plan? Phillyist recommends the classic movie and Chinese food combo for Christmas day. Many restaurants in Chinatown will remain open for the holiday, as will the Ritz movie theaters.

Thankful Chanukah
Finally, with so much attention on giving, the holidays are always a good time to remember those in need. Philadelphia Cares' winter coat drive runs through January 16. Locations to deposit your gently used coats can be found here, or at philacares.org. Happy Chanukah and happy holidays to all!

Philadelphia menorah image: about.com