Tuesday, May 13, 2025
The Chabad Center for Jewish Life on Merrick, Bellmore and Wantagh marked Sukkot and Simchat Torah last week, in a lively celebration that involved eating, dancing, and lots of fun.
Sukkot is a weeklong Jewish holiday that begins five days after Yom Kippur. It commemorates the 40 years the Israelites wandered in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt, during which they lived in temporary shelters, or “sukkot.” In remembrance, Jewish families build and spend time in their own sukkah, a temporary outdoor structure with a roof made from natural materials like branches, so they can still see outside of the covering.
The holiday has an agricultural aspect, celebrating the harvest season. Sukkot is a joyful holiday, marked by liveley rituals that symbolize unity and connection to nature. It lasts seven days in Israel, and eight days in the Jewish disaspora, concluding with the holiday Simchat Torah in the U.S.
Simchat Torah, meaning “Rejoicing with the Torah,” is a Jewish holiday that marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings and the start of a new one. Celebrated right after the week-long festival of Sukkot, it typically falls in late September or October. During this holiday, Jewish communities around the world gather to read the final verses of the Torah and immediately begin again with Genesis, symbolizing the never-ending cycle of study and learning.
The holiday is also known for its festive, joyful atmosphere. Many communities also involve children in the festivities, often with small flags or sweets to make the experience more engaging. The essence of Simchat Torah is to celebrate the importance of the Torah in Jewish life and to express joy and gratitude for its teachings.
The Chabad’s celebration at its Merrick location on Hewlett Avenue began with Sushi in the Sukkah. Kosher sushi, hot dogs, burgers and more were served. Children were able to interact with animals at a petting zoo. This year’s theme was outer space, meaning inside the Sukkah there were fun space-themed activities to take part in.
Following the feast, there was a children’s dance with the Torah inside the Chabad center, as well as “spin it to win it” prizes for the whole family — such as flags, squishies, stuffed Torahs and more. Afterwards, holiday candles were lit, and a short prayer service for the holiday, called a maariv service, and yizkor service — or memorial prayer service — were said.
Kiddush, a Jewish blessing and ritual that sanctifies Shabbat and Jewish holidays, were said, before desert was served in the Sukkah.
In honor of the victims of the Oct. 7 attacks against Israel, this year the Chabad made it a point that they would dance with the Torah for those who can’t.
The celebration hosted by the Chabad Center highlighted the joyous essence of Sukkot and Simchat Torah, bringing families and community members together in unity and gratitude. With lively traditions, festive meals and meaningful rituals, the event embraced both the ancient roots and vibrant spirits of these holidays.
