Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor

Tot Shabbat
2026-02-21 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Beth Israel Congregation 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor
Join us for a playful morning of Jewish songs and stories. Challah and grape
juice kiddush included. For kids age 1 through 1st grade and parents, but all
are welcome to join.
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14165

Jewish Storytime at the AADL
2026-02-22 10:30 - 12:30 | Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown 343 S 5th Ave, Ann Arbor
**Join Carmel & Ori for Jewish Story Time**
There will be both English and Hebrew sessions but we invite families to join
for both!
* **10:30-11:30:** Jewish story time & Activity
* **11:30-12:30:** Hebrew Jewish story time & Activity (Hebrew immersion)
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13418

Shushan Speakeasy
2026-02-28 20:00 - 23:00
Behind the secret door:
delicious bites, open bar and speakeasy games await.
Dress to impress in your finest Roaring ’20’s attire or Purim costume.
Must be 21 years and older to attend.
Organized by: Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12905

Women's Philanthropy Volunteers @ JFS
2026-03-06 11:00 - 13:00
Join **Jewish Federation Women’s Philanthropy** for a series of giving back
in our own community. We will be helping **JFS Nourish Food Pantry** prepare
and pack food to be distributed to members of our community.
Space is limited to 4-6 people! Follow the registration button to sign up!
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14849

Antisemitism and Criticism of Israel: a conversation with Aviva Klompas
2026-03-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Ann Arbor , Ann Arbor
Aviva Klompas—renowned speaker, podcaster, and author—joins Elyssa Schmier,
Director of ADL Michigan, for a powerful and timely conversation. Together,
they will explore the rise of antisemitism, the war in Israel, how this moment
has reshaped our community, and what it means for the future of the Jewish
people. Join us for an important dialogue about where we are—and where we go
from here.
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor,
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14249

Raising Resilient Kids: An Evening with Lenore Skenazy
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:15 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor
Join us for an inspiring talk with Lenore Skenazy, renowned author, speaker,
and founder of the Let Grow movement.
Lenore is best known for her groundbreaking book “Free-Range Kids” and her
decades of work challenging the culture of overprotection in parenting.
The evening will include a live presentation by Lenore, followed by a Q&A led
by Dr. Beth Pearson, director of the Ann Arbor location of Arbor Psychology
Group, Hebrew Day School consulting psychologist.
**> > Wednesday, March 18th**
**> > 6:30-8:15 PM**
**> > At the Jewish Community Center, Ann Arbor**
**> > Free of charge**
**> > Kosher dinner provided**
**> > Bring the kids! KidZone staff will be on-site with youth programming
(ages 5+)**
**> > RSVP here:
**(https://www.jlive.app/events/14688)
We hope to see you there!
Organized by: Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor,
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14688

Jewish Storytime at the AADL
2026-03-22 10:30 - 12:30 | Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown 343 S 5th Ave, Ann Arbor
**Join Carmel & Ori for Jewish Story Time**
There will be both English and Hebrew sessions but we invite families to join
for both!
* **10:30-11:30:** Jewish story time & Activity
* **11:30-12:30:** Hebrew Jewish story time & Activity (Hebrew immersion)
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13420

4th Annual Recovery Seder
2026-03-29 16:00 - 19:00
Join us for the 4th Annual Recovery Seder. A way to celebrate Passover and
recovery. All are welcome and the event is free to anyone who registers.
**This is a free event but any donations at registration will go towards
ensuring this and other recovery events are free**
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14505

TBE Brotherhood Men's Seder
2026-03-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Temple Beth Emeth 2309 Packard St, Ann Arbor
Seder led by Rabbi Josh Whinston with meaningful discussions about various
issues, and fun! Seder Is open to Brotherhood and men of St. Clare’s. Please
bring whatever your wine or beverage of choice you desire. There is no cost
for the event but donations are appreciated.
Organized by: Temple Beth Emeth
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15148

Tot Shabbat
2026-04-11 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-25 11:00 - 12:00 | Beth Israel Congregation 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor
Join us for a playful morning of Jewish songs and stories. Challah and grape
juice kiddush included. For kids age 1 through 1st grade and parents, but all
are welcome to join. Please note that in order to participate in Tot Shabbat,
all tots must be accompanied by an adult. Thanks for helping to make this fun
and safe for everyone
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15259

Yom HaAtzmaut Israeli Block Party
2026-04-22 17:00 - 20:00 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor
Second annual Israeli Block Party! Come celebrate Israel’s Independence Day.
The most fun you will have in Israel… in Ann Arbor.
LIVE MUSIC from Israel with HaShayara!
Food and Drinks available for purchase!
Lawn Games!
Art and Experiences Tour through Israel!
Children’s Activities!
This will be a large event with games, food, and fun inside of the JCC!
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor,
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14454

Borderland The Line Within Documentary
2026-04-28 18:30 - 21:30 | Michigan Theater 603 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor
An award-winning documentary that exposes the human cost of immigration as it
weaves in the compelling stories of immigrants fighting to uphold their human
rights. Q&A follows with the Director and Producer. All proceeds go to the
Interfaith Fund for Immigrant Justice (MIRC/IFIJ) to support legal services
provided by the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center. Sponsored by Temple Beth
Emeth.
Organized by: Temple Beth Emeth
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14862

May Tot Shabbat
2026-05-02 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-05-16 18:00 - 21:00 | Beth Israel Congregation 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor
Join us for a playful morning of Jewish songs and stories. Challah and grape
juice kiddush included. For kids age 1 through 1st grade and parents, but all
are welcome to join. Please note that in order to participate in Tot Shabbat,
all tots must be accompanied by an adult. Thanks for helping to make this fun
and safe for everyone!
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15469

Lag B'Omer
2026-05-05 17:30 - 20:00
Join the Greater Ann Arbor Jewish Community for a celebration of Lag B’Omer.
Enjoy bonfires, Chabad BBQ, crafts, music, games and bicycle-towed hayrides
with your family and friends as we count day number 33 of the Omer together!
(Free for children 4 and under)
Organized by: Chabad House of Ann Arbor, JCC of Greater Ann Arbor, Hebrew Day
School of Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15450

HDS Legacy L'chayim
2026-05-07 18:30 - 20:30
A celebration and reunion of our alumni families, welcoming our 5th grade
parents and honoring an HDS alumni family.
Kosher drinks and refreshments.
Organized by: Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13220

Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival Shorts Series - Oscar Shorts Showcase: 4 Films, Light Snacks & Community Discussion
2026-05-26 14:00 - 15:00 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor
Celebrating 25 Years of Jewish Cinema
In honor of the **Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival’s 25th Anniversary** , we are
proud to present a special showcase of **25 films** throughout the season. We
are excited to launch our new **Shorts Series Discussion Panels** , providing
a space for powerful storytelling followed by community conversation.
When & Where
* **Time:** 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM weekly
* **Location:** The JCC of Greater Ann Arbor
* **Format:** Screenings followed by moderated panels and light snacks.
Expert Panels
Each week features guest experts, including local professors, rabbis,
directors, artists, and filmmakers, offering unique insights into Jewish
history and identity.
Tickets & Sponsorship
* **General Admission:** $15 per session at check-in, or $72 for the series online in advance.
* **Sponsorship:** All films in this series are **included** with Festival Sponsorship.
* **To Support:** To become a sponsor, please reach out to **Marci Sturman** or visit the **JCC Front Desk**.
The Shorts Series Lineup
* **Oscar Nominees Night:** Featuring 2026 Academy Award® nominees **_Butcher’s Stain_** and **_Children No More_** , plus two bonus shorts: **_Frequency_** and **_Last Respects_**.
* **_Windows on Rue de St. Dominique_** : An artistic exploration featuring filmmaker **Simcha Shtull** (sister of our own **Dina Shtull**), alongside **Professor Karla Goldman** and local artist and community favorite **Ron Sussman**.
* **Food & Family:** A double feature of **_Babka_** and **_Double Happiness_**. Includes a recipe share and food competition! **_Please bring your favorite Babka or Jewish recipes and your best Babka for our Bubbe’s Best Babka competition!_**
* **_That’s How You Make a Torah_** : A deep dive into sacred craft with the film’s cinematographer and local Rabbinical leadership.
* **History & Heroism:** A poignant screening of **_Wallenberg_** and **_Ice Cream Man_** with a discussion led by an expert panel.
* **_The Niggun_** : An exploration of Yiddish culture, music, and spirituality with **Rabbi Chazan Pescador** and **Professor Julian Levinson**.
Organized by: JCC of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15756

Beth Israel Community Garden Program
2026-05-31 10:00 - 12:00 | County Farm Park 2230 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor
On May 31, please join the Green Team Task Force at the Beth Israel Community
Garden at the County Farm Park from 10-12 am. We will have a fun educational
session/game on Judaism and Environmentalism, and then use our hands and arms
to till, weed and plant more vegetables. Snacks will be provided. If you are
an avid garden or novice, all are welcome.
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15476

TBE Talking About Israel Together
2026-06-01 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-06-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Temple Beth Emeth 2309 Packard St, Ann Arbor
This June, TBE is hosting a four-session series called Talking About Israel
Together — dinner first, honest conversation after, with a framework that
makes it feel safe to actually speak.
Organized by: Temple Beth Emeth
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15908

Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival Shorts Series - Windows on Rue de St. Dominique: Film Screening, Panel & Local Artist
2026-06-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor

June Tot Shabbat
2026-06-06 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-06-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Beth Israel Congregation 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor
Join us for a playful morning of Jewish songs and stories. Challah and grape
juice kiddush included. For kids age 1 through 1st grade and parents, but all
are welcome to join. Please note that in order to participate in Tot Shabbat,
all tots must be accompanied by an adult. Thanks for helping to make this fun
and safe for everyone!
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15800

InStepWithSam Legacy Run
2026-06-07 09:00 - 12:00 | 1320 Baldwin Ave 1320 Baldwin Ave, Ann Arbor
**Proceeds support the Samantha Woll Center for Jewish Detroit**
Join the 3rd annual InStepWithSam Legacy Run as we celebrate Sam Woll’s spirit
of unity, kindness, and community. Choose from a 5K, a 1-mile walk/run, or a
Kids Fun Run, and enjoy a festive day with food trucks, a bounce house, and a
Sam-inspired service project. Not in Ann Arbor? You can still participate with
a virtual option or join a meetup happening in cities across the U.S. and
abroad. Register by April 10 to save $5, and by May 10 to receive a free
t-shirt. For more information, click
(https://jlhiirnab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cHyfcUEm2IVd4GNoSDOgAScye7KtfSEXkcK76Egv61jw6Bg4NOeNoRd_OplBrpgJlrKT7QfkufH-
wNR9ZqW_92AuoUScsMpIGaWtWLWJQVNCxj0i9E3tT-
LEunl6KsHMZAIVrjnvIvkO9zdA7b8wjj8K7fEAtLIM8OnR2Ibb0hcIzn-
Yzr3ArvJ5L69pVbhtvVQaJvNeAnWrmRKTC773A0Ufj5Wa3dmBu_o_W1CKKVrjQDkbLl6_-Vznm8PHcFzpqGsza6nDMnxZ5mH8XCFye3MBhBSjk73L6jD5-gPQmRxGUuy9XvNcyxO6Fr0f_-
CtuSn_PpeStxD9nmKWXqsEck3klOC-18fAvwvKEOmnKG2xYCK1pKAlCMes17ppP4SBvbwQQfxWrkM=&c=TtbHbY60N_Bqj-
pPGHRYcD6a2XVjFSNyFfWn5iPbe7AQK8giskEYlA==&ch=[REDACTED]
FSX3rFQ==).
Organized by: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15382

TBE Congregational Experiences with Zionism and Anti-Zionism
2026-06-07 14:00 - 17:00
Our synagogues have always held multitudes. We come from different
backgrounds, hold different politics, and bring different Jewish journeys to
our congregations, and somehow we find a way to be a community, together. But
the question of Zionism is testing that capacity in new ways. Across the
country, congregations are grappling with how to remain whole when their
members hold fundamentally different, sometimes irreconcilable, views.
How do we stay in relationship with one another? How do rabbis and lay leaders
create space for genuine disagreement without fracturing the community they’ve
worked so hard to build? These are not easy questions, and there are no simple
answers, but they are exactly the questions this program is designed to
explore.
Karla Goldman, who directs the University of Michigan’s Jewish Communal
Leadership Program, will bring her expertise in Jewish institutions to
moderate a conversation on that can engage the diverse perspectives within the
room. Andrew Lapin will offer on-the-ground reporting on how Liberal Jewish
congregations nationally are wrestling with this challenge. Then Rabbi Stella,
Rabbi Caine, and Rabbi Whinston will join a panel discussion moderated by
Robert Erlewine, turning the lens on our own Ann Arbor congregations.
Come ready to listen, to question, and to be part of the conversation.
Organized by: Temple Beth Emeth
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15910

Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival Shorts Series - Films: Babka & Double Happiness + Recipe Share & Food Competition
2026-06-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor

Carlebach Shabbat Service & Dinner
2026-06-12 18:00 - 20:30 | Beth Israel Congregation 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor
Please join us Rabbi Bair for the last Carlebach-style Shabbat with him. It
will be a songful, full Kabbalat Shabbat service using melodies by Reb Shlomo
Carlebach and followed by a traditional Shabbat chicken dinner. Registration
for the dinner is required at
Organized by: Beth Israel Congregation
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15801

Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival Shorts Series - hat’s How You Make a Torah: Film & Expert Panel Q&A
2026-06-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor

TBE Retreat
2026-06-19 00:00 - 2026-06-21 00:00 | Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center Conservation Dr, Roscommon
Miracles surround us every day, but we often don’t notice them. The theme of
our weekend retreat is Nisim b’Chol Yom, or “Everyday Miracles.” Through
prayer, text, song, and community, surrounded by the beauty of Northern
Michigan, we will explore the daily miracles we encounter within and around
us.
Organized by: Temple Beth Emeth
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15152
