At sundown on Wednesday, September 24, the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, is celebrated. For many Jewish families, it is a holiday of reflection and renewal, as well as a time to share a holiday meal with family and friends.

There are plenty of ideas online for making a festive Rosh Hashanah meal. Barista Kids contributor Anna Sandler gets inspired  by the recipes at The Shiksa in the Kitchen – particularly  her Apple Honey Challah and she’s a huge fan of her Oven Roasted Root Vegetables.

For celebrating the holiday with kids, she recommends heading over to Creative Jewish Mom and choosing a Rosh Hashanah craft from her huge selection. Most are good for mixed ages, and utilize common items you’re likely to have at home. You can make Stuffed Paper Shapes for Rosh Hashanah or Woven Paper Apples.

In addition to your local temple’s services, here are some of fun, family events to celebrate Rosh Hashanah:

Rosh Hashanah Storytime: J Connection
Who: Toddlers through age 4
What: Join J Connection Montclair Area and Jewish educator and storyteller Bluma Acocella for PJ Library Rosh Hashanah stories, songs and dramatic play, and make a recycled holiday craft to take home!
Where: Watchung Booksellers, 54 Fairfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ
When: Monday, September 15 from 1 – 2 pm
Cost: Free. RSVP by September 11 to Emmy Atlas here.

The Great Shofar Blowout
Who: Families
What: Be a part of history! Attend The Great Shofar Blowout to blow Shofar and break the current Guinness World Record for Largest Shofar Blowing Ensemble. This festive event takes place the Sunday before Rosh Hashanah and will include music, hands-on activities and fun educational sessions.
Where: Alex Aidekman Family Jewish Community Campus, 901 Route 10, Whippany, NJ
When: Sunday, September 21 from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Rain or shine.
Cost: Free. Click here to RSVP online and to learn about ongoing Shofar Blowing Clinics.

Mama Doni Band Concert
Who: Little kids and their families.
What: Celebrate the Jewish New Year with Mama Doni at this high-energy performance. Kids, parents, and grandparents are invited to dance and sing along
Where: Museum of Jewish Heritage, 36 Battery Place, at 1st Place, NYC.
When: Sunday, September 28 at 2 pm.
Cost: $10, $7 children 10 and under; Museum members: $7, $5 children 10 and under Purchase tickets here.

To all who are celebrating – best wishes for a happy, healthy and sweet New Year! L’Shana Tova!

(Photo: Flickr)

 

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