SHELTON, Conn. — Residents from across the Valley are invited to experience Jewish culture in an engaging, family-friendly way as the Shelton Jewish Festival returns to Huntington Green this Sunday, June 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and the festival is open to the entire community.
Now in its fifth year, the free community festival has grown into one of Shelton’s unique summer events, welcoming hundreds of attendees from throughout the region. Organized by Chabad of Shelton, the festival was created with a simple goal: to offer neighbors of every background an opportunity to experience Jewish life through music, food, traditions and hands-on activities.
“Many people know someone who’s Jewish, but have never had the chance to experience Jewish culture firsthand,” said Rabbi Shneur Brook, director of Chabad of Shelton. “The festival creates a relaxed, welcoming environment where people can enjoy great food, live music, ask questions, and discover traditions they may never have encountered before.”
This year’s festival features two live musical performances. Opening the afternoon is the Bivolița Klezmer Band, performing the joyful sounds of traditional Eastern European Jewish music. Later, the Jon Madof Trio returns to Shelton with its distinctive blend of jazz, rock, and Jewish soul.
Visitors can also enjoy kosher Middle Eastern cuisine prepared by New Haven’s Ladle & Loaf, browse local artisan vendors, and explore activities for all ages, including inflatables, carnival games, crafts, and a foam party.
Among this year’s newest attractions is an opportunity to meet a trained Torah scribe, known as a sofer. Guests will be able to watch centuries-old calligraphy techniques in action and receive their Hebrew name beautifully handwritten using the same traditional methods employed in writing Torah scrolls, mezuzahs, and tefillin.
“We wanted to create experiences people couldn’t find anywhere else,” Brook said. “Whether it’s watching a Torah scribe at work, hearing live klezmer music, or simply enjoying incredible food with friends, there’s something for everyone.”
For information and to register, visit SheltonJewishFestival.com.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
