The upcoming months are full for the Jewish Federation's Lower Merion Kehillah — be sure to save the date!
ShAAK Presents: Joel Gibbs: Movies, Meetups, and Mishigas
Tuesday, Sept. 16 | 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Shir Ami
Come for the laughs, stay for the stories! Join Shir Ami in Shalom Hall for a fun-filled morning with Jewish comedian and master storyteller Joel Gibbs. Start the day with coffee, schmoozing, and great company, then settle in for Joel’s entertainment campfire - for a laughter-filled morning with Jewish comedian and master storyteller, Joel Gibbs! With a career spanning decades in TV, radio, and live performance, Joel has met and worked with countless showbiz icons - and he's got the stories to prove it. To register, click here.
HFL 41st Anniversary and Board Installation
Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 7 - 9 p.m.
Hebrew Free Loan Society of Greater Philadelphia
In celebration of Hebrew Free Loan Society of Greater Philadelphia’s 41st anniversary, join to honor the incredible 7 years of service by outgoing president, Amy Krulik. Additionally, join to officially install the new executive board with the fourth ever president, Harold Marcus. To register, email Anna Marx at anna@hflphilly.org.
Wine and Cheese Night For Jewish Singles 55 Plus
Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 7 - 9 p.m.
Congregation Brothers of Israel
Join Congregation Brothers of Israel for a wine and cheese get together for Jewish Singles 55 plus. Get to know other singles within the Bucks County, Philadelphia and the Mercer area. To register, click here.
The Power of Boredom: Tech, Mental Health & Raising Resilient Kids
Thursday, Sept. 18 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia
Join Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia for a conversation on how boredom can foster healthy development, and how it can relate to screen use and childhood mental health. Learn to recognize signs of tech overuse, gain the tools for building digital resilience and access community resources to help bring these practices into your own family. To register, click here.
Philly 2026 And Beyond
Thursday, Sept. 18 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Join the Jewish Business Network for an evening of networking and hearing from Philadelphia's best about what's to come in 2026. To register, click here.
Golden Slipper Camp's Fall Festival
Saturday, Sept. 20 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Golden Slipper Camp
See what Golden Slipper Camp has to offer in 2026 at the Fall Festival. This event is intended for prospective campers and current campers, along with their families. To register, click here.
From Trauma to Healing: Supporting Israel’s Dental Community
Sunday, Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Alpha Omega US Dental Foundation
Join us for an inspiring event to explore the journey from trauma to healing within Israel's dental community. Alpha Omega US Dental Foundation is hosting a powerful gathering marking two years since Oct. 7 to discuss Trauma and how to help the Israeli dental community heal. To register, click here.
Jake Cohen’s “Dinner Party Animal” | Book Launch
Monday, Sept. 29 | 7-9 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Four friends. One stage. Endless stories. Join cookbook sensation Jake Cohen, chef Michael Solomonov, songwriter Benj Pasek, and comedian Alex Edelman for a night celebrating food, laughter, and friendship. These longtime friends bring their signature humor, heart and creativity to Philadelphia in a conversation you won’t forget — plus nosh inspired by Jake’s new book Dinner Party Animal during the book signing. Come hungry for connection, joy and a truly one-night-only experience. To register, click here.
“A Letter to David” Film Screening
Saturday, Oct. 4 | 8-10 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Filmmaker Tom Shoval crafts a personal cinematic letter to David Cunio, who was abducted by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7, 2023, and has been held hostage in Gaza ever since. David and his brother Eitan played the lead roles in Shoval’s award-winning debut film, ‘Youth’ (Berlinale 2013), which centered around a kidnapping and depicted their strong bond. Shoval revisits that film’s raw footage, unedited behind-the-scenes material, and auditions, weaving them together in a documentary that serves as both a personal letter and a multi-layered portrayal of the new reality in war-torn Kibbutz Nir Oz, where many were murdered or abducted. This affecting visual journey reflects on what was and never will be again, the cruel separation of the brothers, and the inexplicable connection between life and cinema, memory and reality. The film does not use footage from October 7th but relies on existing materials as a testimony to the unimaginable. To register, click here.
Remember Oct. 7
Sunday, Oct. 5 | 5-7 p.m.
Adath Israel on the Main Line
Join the Israeli American Council for an evening of commemoration and reflection. Together in solidarity, grief and healing, the community will honor the victims of Oct. 7 and call for the release of all hostages. To register, click here.
Fall Fest
Sunday, Oct. 12 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Kaiserman JCC
Celebrate the season and enjoy music, yard games, food trucks, vendor market and more. Kids can explore bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting, a petting zoo and themed crafts — many activities require tickets or an unlimited wristband. Extra fun like laser tag and bungee trampoline are available with additional tickets. To register, click here.
“Heart of a Stranger” Book Launch with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl
Thursday, Oct. 23 | 7-8:30 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Join for an inspiring evening with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, the groundbreaking Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue in New York City and the first Asian American ordained as a rabbi and cantor. In conversation with renowned cultural journalist Sandee Brawarsky, Rabbi Buchdahl will share stories from her deeply personal new memoir, Heart of a Stranger — a moving reflection on identity, faith, leadership and belonging. To register, click here.
JRA Food Distribution
Sunday, Oct. 26, Nov. 16 and Dec.14 | 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
JRA Warehouse
Join this month's distribution and help pack and deliver food for low-income individuals across the Greater Philadelphia area. From 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., join JRA Juniors for ages ten and under to pack boxes and enjoy stories and crafts. Starting at 10:00 a.m., packing for ages ten and older will begin. To register, click here.
"A Beautiful Museum: The Brooklyn Museum" with Lynn Berkowitz
Friday, Nov. 7 | 10-11:30 a.m.
Shir Ami
Shir Ami's Center for Adult Life Presents: "A Beautiful Museum: The Brooklyn Museum.” Lynn Berkowitz will lead a discussion on The Brooklyn Museum. This museum is filled with a brilliant array of stunning works of art that span classical to contemporary times. This conversational-style class features short, related videos that bring fresh perspectives to the featured artists, paintings and sculptures that represent a number of pivotal art movements. From methods and materials to evoking the emotional response, the Brooklyn Museum showcases it all! This event is geared towards ages 60 and older. To register, click here.
Dorie Greenspan’s “Anytime Cakes” Book Launch and Cake Party
Sunday, Nov. 9 | 2-4 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Join for a delectable evening with five-time James Beard Award winner and beloved baking authority Dorie Greenspan as she returns to The Weitzman to celebrate the release of her newest cookbook, “Anytime Cakes.” In conversation with food writer and podcast host Noelle Blizzard, Greenspan will share the inspiration behind her 15th book — a joyful collection of 100 unfussy, crave-worthy cakes designed for any day and every occasion. To register, click here.
Philadelphia Jewish Film and Media Festival: Celebrating 45 Years of Bold Jewish Storytelling
Wednesday, Nov. 12-Sunday, Nov. 23
Celebrating 45 years of bold Jewish storytelling, Philadelphia Jewish Film and Media (PJFM)’s annual film and media festival returns Nov. 12-23 to Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. PJFM’s 45th festival brings unique Jewish international films and digital media content from across the globe, from Philadelphia movie premieres to repertory cinema and collaborative events with local organizations. The 45th Annual Festival will reflect its growing mission to create connection and community through Jewish cinema and digital storytelling. To learn more and get tickets, click here.
Americans for Ben-Gurion University Tribute Brunch
Sunday, Nov. 16 | 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Americans for Ben-Gurion University
Join Americans for Ben-Gurion University to celebrate and honor the work of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU). BGU is the beating heart of the Negev — where education, research and community are leading the Way Forward. To register, click here.
Aish Chaim Annal Gala
Tuesday, Nov. 11 | 6 - 9:30 p.m.
Aish Chaim
Join Aish Chaim for a special evening of celebration. To register, click here.
Antisemitism, An American Tradition | Book Launch & Conversation with Pam Nadell and Dan Tadmor
Thursday, Nov. 13 | 7-8:30 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Antisemitism is not an aberration in American history — it’s a thread woven through it. In her urgent and sweeping new book, Antisemitism, an American Tradition, acclaimed historian Pamela Nadell traces nearly four centuries of anti-Jewish prejudice on American soil, from Peter Stuyvesant’s attempt to expel Jews in 1654 to modern-day acts of deadly violence and hate. Join for a timely and eye-opening conversation between Nadell and Weitzman Museum CEO Dan Tadmor, exploring how antisemitism in the United States has endured, evolved and been met with fierce and creative resistance. To register, click here.
Americans for Ben-Gurion University Tribute Brunch
Sunday, Nov. 16 | 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Americans for Ben-Gurion University
Join Americans for Ben-Gurion University to celebrate and honor the work of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU). BGU is the beating heart of the Negev — where education, research and community are leading the Way Forward. To register, click here.
2025 Trip to the "Paper Clips" Project in Whitwell, TN
Sunday, Nov. 16 - Monday, Nov. 17
Join for the 12th anniversary Philly Friends of Paper Clips trip to Whitwell, Tennessee, home of the "Paper Clips" project and the Children's Holocaust Memorial. This trip is designed as a family trip, students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To learn more and register, click here.
Shake, Rattle, and Roll: Join the Celebration at Shir Ami!
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Shir Ami
Join Shir Ami to launch the brand-new Shir Ami Center for Adult Life with a high-energy, feel-good morning of live music from the 1950s and 1960s! Richie and the High Street Rockers are passionately reinventing the sound of rock's roots for the 21st century! This event is for ages 60 and older. To register, click here.
Chanukah Market at The Weitzman
Sunday, Nov. 30 | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Browse one-of-a-kind creations from local artists, makers and Museum Store favorites, then treat yourself to delicious bites from some of Philadelphia’s most exciting food purveyors. With music, flavor, and flair, it’s the perfect way to shop small and start the season bright. To register, click here.
The Essence: A Yiddish Theatre Dim Sum
Saturday, Dec. 6 from 7-9 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7 from 2-4 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Witty, fast-paced, and unapologetically irreverent, The Essence: A Yiddish Theatre Dim Sum is a genre-bending theatrical revue that delivers a crash course in Yiddish stage history — with zero nostalgia and maximum laughs. Created by and starring Allen Lewis Rickman and Yelena Shmulenson, with live musical accompaniment by Steve Sterner, this 83-minute performance distills 150 years of Yiddish theatre into a whirlwind of sharp sketches, cheeky songs, and lovingly crafted satire. To register, click here.
Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare | Book Launch and Conversation with Eddie Fishman
Thursday, Dec. 11 | 7-9 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
What happens when the world’s most powerful nation turns its economy into a weapon? In his gripping new bestseller “Chokepoints: American Power in the Era of Economic Warfare,” former United States State Department official Eddie Fishman reveals how the United States has reshaped global conflict — not through troops or tanks, but by weaponizing its dominance in finance, trade and technology. With unprecedented access and insider perspective, Fishman takes participants behind the scenes of America’s economic campaigns against Russia, China and especially Iran, where sanctions have become a central tool in the high-stakes struggle over nuclear ambitions and regional power. To register, click here.
Medal of Honor Ceremony
Sunday, Dec. 14 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Join Maccabi USA to bestow the Medal of Honor upon visionary leaders who have advanced this organization and strengthened our collective Jewish future through the power of sports. To register, click here.
Chanukah Movie and Lunch
Thursday, Dec. 18 | 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Shir Ami
Join Shir Ami during the week of Chanukah for a heartwarming movie, lunch and festive fun! They’ll be showing “Hanukkah on Rye,” a charming Hallmark film about two rival deli owners brought together by a matchmaker and the magic of Chanukah. After the movie, stick around for sandwiches, sides and a friendly game of dreidel. Come celebrate the Chanukah season with community, laughter and a little romance on screen! This event is geared toward ages 60 and older. To register, click here.
Being _ at Christmas!
Thursday, Dec. 25 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Fill in your own blank and join the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History for their annual day of family fun. To register, click here.
Holocaust Survivor Concert
Tuesday, March 10 | 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Keneseth Israel Synagogue
Commonwealth Youth Choir will host a concert with the Holocaust Awareness Museum to sing to local Holocaust survivors and the audience. After the performance, participants can meet survivors. To register, click here.
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The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia's Kehillah initiative works to foster vibrant Jewish communities. You can learn more about the Lower Merion Kehillah by visiting jewishphilly.org/lowermerion or by contacting Community Engagement Specialist Noah Schoenberg at nschoenberg@jewishphilly.org.
Want to see other events happening in your community? Click here to see the community calendar.
