Holidays and Festivals

Holidays at Kol Ami

Congregation Kol Ami observes the entire cycle of Jewish holidays and festivals. Traditional prayers along with modern insights help to make the holy days spiritually meaningful, linking us to Jews throughout the world and time.

The High Holy Day period is one of the busiest times of the year. Our preparations begin with the annual Selichot services, an evening of reflection and learning.

Kol Ami observes two days of Rosh Hashanah and the full day of Yom Kippur. Our services are filled with both traditional and congregational melodies. As always, our services are participatory and congregants of all ages take part, both on the bima and from the pews.

Sukkot and Simchat Torah quickly follow Yom Kippur. Our congregation’s sukkah is a focal point for these days. We celebrate kiddush, pray eat, and learn in the sukkah, when the weather is cooperative. Other social events often take place in the sukkah, giving those attending the opportunity to fulfill the mitzvah of eating and drinking in the sukkah. On erev Simchat Torah, we have a family friendly service. ruach, fun-filled hakafot, and dancing fill out the rest of the night. During services the next morning, the congregation sings and dances, as well as honors congregants with the last and first aliyah as we end and begin our Torah reading cycle.

Kol Ami celebrates Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, outside by the large Hanukkiah situated in the parking lot. On each of the eight nights we gather to kindle the lights, sing Hanukkah songs, and schmooze with each other. During the festival, we also come together for our annual Hanukkah Party with latkes, donuts, and activities.

Erev Purim is a fun evening for adults and children alike. Each year brings our annual Purim party with games, music, and, of course, an abundance of shul-made hamentaschen to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth. Erev Purim showcases our annual Family Megillah reading, with lots of congregant participation. Not to be missed is the infamous “Catwalk,” our costume parade, and other surprises.

Pesah (Passover) is a busy time at Kol Ami. In the days leading up to Pesah, we observe the Fast of the Firstborn, as well as giving our congregants the opportunity to sell their chametz before the festival. We hold services on the first two and last two days of the holiday. Our Sisterhood Gift Shop has all the ritual items, as well as the afikomen gifts, you will need for your seder.

Shavuot, celebrating the Torah’s revelation at Sinai, is welcomed with a Tikkun Leyl Shavuot, an evening study session on Erev Shavuot. followed by snacking on tasty dairy foods like cheesecake and blintzes. During this time, our 10th grade class celebrates Confirmation and their commitment to continuing their Jewish education beyond their B’nai Mitzvah.

Tisha B’av, the 9th of Av, is observed with a solemn service and the chanting of the book of Eichah, Lamentations.

Please join us for these holidays and festivals throughout the year. Please check our calendar or call the office for more information.