weekend clubs in New York serve as community hubs for Jewish adults, facilitating social connections and camaraderie among their members
In the vibrant city of New York, modern Shabbat clubs are redefining the way people connect with their Jewish identities. These clubs, ranging from avant-garde social-nightlife events to more traditional synagogue-centered experiences, offer a unique blend of traditional Jewish observance and innovative, communal, and often social or cultural elements.
One of the most distinctive examples is Sinners' Shabbat, a regular party held in nightclubs. This unique gathering combines burlesque performances, drag queen shows, and serving challah, creating a unique Jewish gathering with an arts and nightlife vibe.
Beyond nightlife-focused Shabbat clubs, many modern Shabbat communities in the New York area emphasize warmth, inclusivity, and engagement at multiple levels of observance. Congregations like the Young Israel of Hewlett identify as Modern Orthodox and offer structured Shabbat experiences with prayer services (Minyanim), youth programs, shiurim (Torah classes), and active community groups like sisterhoods and men’s clubs.
Congregation Shearith Israel's "Friday Night Live" includes a spirited Kabbalat Shabbat service with uplifting melodies, a d’var Torah (Torah teaching), and an oneg (festive meal/reception), combining spirituality with community connection. Congregation Shaarey Zedek in New York State highlights a welcoming, inclusive environment with multi-generational engagement and a mix of traditional and innovative Jewish practice.
Infused Shabbat Dinners, while incorporating modern cannabis infusions, curated playlists, and discussions about October 7th, are not centered around cannabis use. Instead, they aim to enhance connection, presence, and creativity. These clubs and communities reflect evolving Jewish identity by combining ritual observance with social, cultural, and artistic experiences that resonate with diverse participants.
Gay Shabbat, with an identifier in its name, was founded by 26-year-old Blake Fonberg in response to a lack of authenticity in events for queer Jews. As Gay Shabbat has grown, it now attracts over 100 people and is held at larger venues.
Shabbat Club, founded by food influencer Morgan Raum, offers various events including traditional Shabbat dinners, holiday parties, and "Almost Shabbat" mixers. Elevate Shabbat transforms Friday night dinners into full evenings with blessings, dinner, dessert, and an afterparty with a DJ. It is inclusive to all faiths and backgrounds.
Hot and Holy, a group founded by Nicole Lefkowitz and Sydney Lorch, aims to combine tradition and fun, particularly in a post-October 7, 2023 world. Anti-semitism is on the rise, and these Shabbat clubs provide a way for attendees to find joy in their Judaism and celebrate their Jewish identities.
Starting small, such as lighting candles on Friday night or talking to someone else who's figuring out their Judaism, can be a good way to get involved in Judaism. For those who did not grow up religious, these modern Shabbat clubs and communities offer accessible ways to connect with their Judaism.
In conclusion, modern Shabbat clubs and communities in New York City and beyond are diverse and varied, offering something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a spiritual experience, a social gathering, or a creative expression of Jewish identity, there's a Shabbat club out there for you.
[1] Sinners' Shabbat: https://www.sinnersshabbat.com/ [3] Young Israel of Hewlett: https://www.youngisraelhewlett.org/ [4] Congregation Shearith Israel: https://www.shearithisrael.org/ [5] Congregation Shaarey Zedek: https://www.shaareyzedekny.org/
- The lifestyle at Sinners' Shabbat, a regular Friday night event in New York City, combines elements of fashion and beauty, relationships, and arts and nightlife, offering burlesque performances, drag queen shows, and serving challah.
- Congregation Shearith Israel's "Friday Night Live" provides aunique blend of travel, shopping, and sports, with a spirited Kabbalat Shabbat service, d’var Torah, and an oneg.
- Gay Shabbat, founded to cater to the needs of queer Jews, is an inclusive club that offers a welcoming, social gathering for relationships, focusing on finding joy and celebrating Jewish identities.
- For individuals who are not religious but want to connect with their Judaism, modern Shabbat clubs like those founded by Morgan Raum, Elevate Shabbat, Hot and Holy, or infused Shabbat dinners can be a great starting point, offering accessible and diverse ways to practice and explore their beliefs.
