In Jewish culture, Friday evening, or shabbes, is a uniquely special time. According to the Torah, the Creator rested on the 7th day, then observed Creation and found it to be good. For millennia, religious Jews throughout the world have observed the commandment to refrain from all toil and trouble once a week, beginning at sundown on Friday, in order to focus on the most important things in life: family, friends, peace, health and more. A huge repertoire of songs and other cultural expressions celebrate shabbes, without which it’s not possible to understand Jewish culture, including klezmer music.

A shtim fun harts is a YSW tradition: a shabbes-inspired evening for getting a taste of traditional Jewish rituals and also for sharing our own songs, stories, and whatever we care about most. This evening you are our friends and guests, and you are most welcome to share your own stories and songs with us if you feel like it.

Free admission. Donations are welcome.