The Big Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El

Mark your calendars: on Friday, November 21, Temple Emanu-El’s Streicker Cultural Center will host what promises to be the world’s largest Shabbat dinner, welcoming 3,000 guests to the North Javits Center in New York City. Dubbed The Big Shabbat, this landmark event aims to break the current Guinness World Record—set in Berlin—and make history right here in New York.

More than just a numbers game, The Big Shabbat is a bold response to a powerful moment in Jewish life. Since the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, there has been a remarkable resurgence of Jewish connection, identity, and community. Backed by a $500,000 grant from UJA-Federation of New York, this event is a creative and joyful expression of that renewed spirit.

“This is about more than setting a record,” organizers emphasize. “It’s about reclaiming Shabbat as a sacred space—for everyone.” Regardless of one’s political views or background, participants are invited to rediscover the meaning of Shabbat: a weekly pause, a moment of connection, and a celebration of community and belonging.

Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased individually.

And if recent demand is any indication—The Great Nosh sold out in just four days and left 2,000 people on a waitlist— The Big Shabbat is expected to fill up fast.

Please review the attached flyer for more information. Tickets go on sale in August. I will send the link as soon as I get it. And, send this along to anyone you feel wants to break a record!