‘Tis the season to enjoy latkes at the annual Latkepalooza

The latke, sometimes referred to as a potato pancake, is a classic Hanukkah dish. This shallow-fried pancake is typically made up of shredded or mashed potato, flour, egg, garlic and onion. However, at The Gershman Y on Broad Street, the concept of a typical latke has been challenged by various Philly chef’s at Latkepalooza since 2003.

Latkepalooza will take place on Dec. 18 from 2-4 p.m. at The Gershman Y, and will have 400 latkes prepared by each of the nine participating Philly restaurants in their own creative way.

Restaurants participating this year include Circles, Estia, Frankford Hall, Jones, Kanella, Local 44, Mission Taqueria, Sabrina’s Cafe and Tria Taproom. Federal Donuts will also be serving sufganiyot, which is a deep-fried Hanukkah donut filled with either jelly or custard and covered in powdered sugar.

Bill Chenevert, director of public relations and marketing for The Gershman Y, says they are excited about restaurants adding their own style to the latke. “Estia’s spanakopita [spinach pie] latke has been a crowd favorite in the past,” he notes.

“The restaurants tend to get really fun and creative with what they can do in terms of a topping or a sauce,” Chenevert adds.

Being a very kid-friendly event, there will be plenty to do besides eating latkes.

The Plants, a Philly children’s band, will be playing a mix of funk, folk, Motown and rock music at the event. There will also be Hanukkah-themed crafts and balloon artistry for the kids to enjoy.

Tickets for the event can be purchased online or by calling The Gershman Y. The $20 general admission ticket is redeemable for 10 latkes. Toddlers under 2 years old can eat three latkes for free and kids 2 to 12 years old can eat seven latkes for $15.

If you go:
Latkepalooza
The Gershman Y
401 S. Broad St.
Dec. 18, 2-4 p.m.
Register online or call 215-545-4400