Tag
Celebration
11 articles
Jewish Wedding Dances: The Hora, the Shtick, and the Joy
No Jewish wedding is complete without dancing — from the iconic hora and chair-lifting to the creative absurdity of shtick to the solemn beauty of the mitzvah tantz. Here is your guide to every dance at a Jewish wedding.
Purim Costumes: Why We Dress Up and What to Wear
Every Purim, Jews around the world dress in costumes — children and adults alike. The tradition connects to themes of hidden identity, divine concealment, and the joyful reversal at the heart of the Purim story.
Purim: The Festival of Joy
Costumes, noisemakers, gifts of food, and the dramatic reading of the Megillah — Purim is the most festive and fun holiday in the Jewish calendar.
The Complete Guide to Bar and Bat Mitzvah
Everything you need to know about Bar and Bat Mitzvah — from the meaning of the ceremony and months of preparation to the Torah reading, celebration, and gifts.
Bar Mitzvah Party Culture: DJs, Dancers, and the Candle-Lighting Ceremony
The bar mitzvah party — from motivator dancers and montage videos to candle-lighting ceremonies and over-the-top themes — is a uniquely American Jewish institution. How did a religious milestone become a party-planning juggernaut?
Yom HaAtzmaut: Israel's Independence Day
From the solemnity of Yom HaZikaron to the joy of independence — Yom HaAtzmaut celebrates the founding of the State of Israel with barbecues, fireworks, flags, and a complex mix of pride and reflection.
Bar Mitzvah: Everything You Need to Know
The complete guide to bar and bat mitzvah — from spiritual meaning to Torah reading to party planning. What it is, how to prepare, what to expect, and why it matters.
Planning a Bar Mitzvah: An 18-Month Timeline
Planning a bar or bat mitzvah can feel overwhelming. This 18-month countdown covers everything — choosing a date, finding a tutor, booking the venue, invitations, catering, entertainment, photography, budget, and guest etiquette.
Bar Mitzvah Gifts: What to Give and How Much
Everything you need to know about bar and bat mitzvah gifts — how much money to give (and why multiples of 18), the best non-monetary gifts, what not to give, and how to write a meaningful card.
Sheva Brachot: The Seven-Day Celebration After a Jewish Wedding
Sheva Brachot — the Seven Blessings — are recited not only under the chuppah but at festive meals throughout the week following a Jewish wedding. Explore this ancient tradition of communal celebration that extends the joy of marriage across seven days.
Bar Mitzvah on a Budget: How to Plan a Meaningful Celebration
Practical tips for planning a meaningful bar or bat mitzvah celebration without overspending, covering venues, food, invitations, entertainment, and creative cost-saving ideas.