Thursday, October 1, 2026
Temple Israel of Lawrence will once again bring the beauty of the beach and the warmth of Shabbat together when it hosts its annual Oceanview Shabbat on July 17 at the Sunny Atlantic Beach Club.
The evening, which has become one of the congregation’s signature summer traditions, will begin with an indoor Shabbat service overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a barbecue buffet dinner, desserts and dancing with a DJ. Congregants and guests are encouraged to wear white and blue attire as they gather to celebrate Jewish faith, friendship and community.
Rabbi Galina Makaveyev said Oceanview Shabbat has been a cherished Temple Israel tradition for many years before it was paused during the coronavirus pandemic.
“Oceanview Shabbat has been a beloved Temple Israel tradition for many years,” Makaveyev said. “It was paused during COVID, and we are grateful to continue bringing it back for our community.”
For Makaveyev, the evening is about much more than a service by the sea.
“This warm and inspiring evening is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Shabbat surrounded by the beauty of nature, strengthen our sacred community, and celebrate with longtime members and those who are just beginning their journey with Temple Israel,” she said. “It is also a beautiful way to welcome friends and family members who join us.”
Although guests enjoy just one evening together, planning begins almost as soon as the previous Oceanview Shabbat ends.
Makaveyev said organizing the event requires coordinating three distinct elements — the worship service, the barbecue dinner and the evening’s entertainment. This year, Temple Israel Board Trustee Robin Agin volunteered to oversee the social festivities, helping ensure the celebration is engaging for all ages.
“My favorite part is being together,” Makaveyev said. “Praying, singing, sharing a meal, dancing and celebrating as one community, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation. It is always inspiring and uplifting.”
The congregation has once again partnered with the Sunny Atlantic Beach Club, whose panoramic ocean views have helped make the event a favorite among members.
Club owner Howard Taub said hosting Oceanview Shabbat is one way the business gives back to the surrounding community.
“We love it,” Taub said. “We love giving back to Atlantic Beach and the surrounding communities. Without the people who support us, we wouldn’t be what we are.”
Taub said preparing for the evening is a collaborative effort between the club and Temple Israel. Together they develop a menu centered on a traditional barbecue buffet while club staff handles the food and hospitality.
“The views are already here,” he added. “All we have to do is hope for good weather.”
As the sun begins to set over the Atlantic, attendees gather for candle lighting, prayers over the wine and challah, and a Shabbat service before sharing dinner and celebrating together overlooking the ocean.
“It’s really a community event,” Taub said. “Everybody gets together, talks with each other and enjoys the evening.”
For Taub, watching neighbors connect is the most rewarding part of the event.
“Just seeing everybody come together as one community and celebrate their religion together is what it’s all about,” he said.
Makaveyev said that spirit of togetherness reflects Temple Israel’s mission.
“This evening reflects what Temple Israel is all about,” she said. “Community, tradition and the joy of celebrating Jewish life together.”
To register for the event, go to https://tilny.shulcloud.com/event/oceanviewshabbat2026.
