From pizza and ice cream to songs, crafts and barbecue, summertime means a mellower Shabbat. Here are eight welcoming destinations; as always, register in advance when requested—and enjoy.
First Fridays
Sudbury’s Congregation Beth El hosts a new installment of their First Fridays on Friday, Aug. 4, a laidback Shabbat with pizza, ice cream (from New City Creamery!), storytelling and an interactive Kabbalat Shabbat. Families should arrive by 5:30 p.m. Registration is required.
Crafts and Carbs
On Friday, Aug. 18, Temple Shalom of Newton hosts a family-friendly outdoor Shabbat service at 5:30 p.m., with music—followed by crafts, pizza, popsicles and picnicking. Afterward, Shabbat services happen in their chapel. Registration is required.
Games and Good Times
On Friday, Aug. 18, Framingham’s Temple Beth Am hosts a picnic in their garden. BYO meal; they’ll provide drinks and desserts from shaved-ice sensation Kona Ice. Socializing starts at 5 p.m., with services at 6:30 p.m. RSVP to shalom@templebetham.org by Aug. 14.
Garden Parties
On Saturday, Aug. 5, kids under 6 and their caregivers are invited to Temple Israel of Boston’s serene garden for dancing, singing and praying led by in-demand kids’ performer (and birthday party sensation) Wayne Potash. The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. Better still: bagels and cream cheese on-site. Contact hhyde@tisrael.org with questions.
A Starry Shabbat
On Friday, Aug. 18, Medford’s Temple Shalom hosts Shabbat Under the Stars, starting at 7:15 p.m. In the past, these evening Shabbats have embraced important themes; in June, the temple held a Pride-themed version, highlighting LGBTQ+ members of all ages, with a kosher chicken dinner.
A Salty Shabbat
Enjoy Shabbat by the Sea with Temple B’Nai Abraham on Friday nights at 5 p.m. through the summer (parking is free!). Pizza is served at 6 p.m., followed by services at 6:45 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Bring your own blankets and chairs. Registration is required.
Spicy Meats
On Fridays, Chabad of the North Shore hosts a kid-friendly, pre-Shabbat ruach (spirit) barbecue at 5:30 p.m., plus story-times with puppeteer Wendy Yaakov. Registration is required.
Tasty Treats
At Temple Beth Abraham in Nashua, enjoy an al fresco barbecue dinner at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 25, followed by a family Shabbat on Saturday, Aug. 26. They also host weekly “Sundaes on Wednesdays” every Wednesday night—and who doesn’t love ice cream? They spotlight local dairies, like Inside Scoop from Bedford, N.H., and King Kone from Merrimack, N.H. Registration is appreciated.
