ShabbabaFest
October 24th-October 25th, 2025
Sababa-Hebrew for Cool + Shabbat-The Jewish Sabbath= ShabbabaFest
Welcome to ShabbabaFest: An Unforgettable Shabbat Overnight Experience for Jewish 5th-7th Graders!
Join us for ShabbabaFest, an immersive weekend designed to make Shabbat meaningful and fun for Jewish students in grades 5-7. Taking place at the incredible Daniel M. Soref Retreat Center, this program offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow through the joy of Shabbat.
This incredible event is a collaboration of CHUSY, the Jewish Educators Assembly (JEA), and several leading congregations, including Congregation Beth Judea, Moriah Congregation, Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation, Temple Har Zion, Congregation B’nai Amoona, Beth Hillel B’nai Emunah Conservative Synagogue, and North Suburban Synagogue Beth El Youth.
What Makes ShabbabaFest Special?
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Interactive Learning: Discover Shabbat customs and traditions through hands-on workshops, creative activities, and engaging discussions.
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Social Connection: Meet Jewish students from across Chicagoland, make new friends, and strengthen community bonds.
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Fun and Adventure: Enjoy exciting games, sports, and immersive experiences tailored for 5th-7th graders.
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Delicious Kosher Food: Savor meals prepared with care, celebrating the joy of Shabbat together.
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Exceptional Leadership: Learn and grow with education directors, clergy, synagogue youth professionals, and your favorite madrichim.
ShabbabaFest is more than a weekend, it’s a chance to explore your Jewish identity, build lasting friendships, and experience the magic of Shabbat in a whole new way.
FAQS
ShabbabaFest 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions
What is ShabbabaFest?
ShabbabaFest is a Shabbat overnight retreat for Jewish 5th–7th graders (friends welcome!) filled with ruach (spirit), meaningful tefillah, scavenger hunts, community service, sports, and team-building.
When is ShabbabaFest?
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Friday, October 24 – Saturday, October 25, 2025
Where is it held?
At the Daniel M. Soref Retreat Center in Milwaukee, WI.
Who can attend?
All Jewish 5th–7th graders are invited, no prior USY involvement required. Jewish friends are welcome!
Registration & Cost
How much does it cost?
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Early Bird Rate: $118 (register by October 6)
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Regular Rate: $150 (register by October 12)
Is financial aid available?
Yes! Thanks to our synagogue partners, USY, the JEA, and the Michael Hoffman Fund, costs are subsidized. Additional scholarships are available, please contact Parker at pweber@uscj.org for details.
How do I register?
Register by clicking here.
Transportation
Is transportation provided?
Yes! Buses will take participants to and from the retreat center.
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Friday, October 24th
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12:30pm – Bus pick-up at West Suburban Temple Har Zion (River Forest)
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1:30pm – Bus pick-up at Northbrook JCC
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2:00pm – Bus pick-up at Congregation Beth Judea (Long Grove)
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Saturday, October 25th
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9:00pm – Bus drop-off at Congregation Beth Judea (Long Grove)
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9:30pm – Bus drop-off at Northbrook JCC
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10:15pm – Bus drop-off at West Suburban Temple Har Zion (River Forest)
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Programming & Experience
What will my child do at ShabbabaFest?
Participants will celebrate Shabbat together with fun services, engaging learning, exciting programming, and time to relax and bond. Highlights include:
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Musical Kabbalat Shabbat & Havdalah
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Scavenger hunts & team challenges
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Community service project
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Sports & outdoor activities
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Big Evening Social Program
Do kids need to know Hebrew or be religious to participate?
No! All are welcome. Programming is designed to be accessible, meaningful, and fun for everyone, regardless of background.
Safety & Staffing
Who staffs ShabbabaFest?
ShabbabaFest is led by trained USY staff, synagogue staff, and other adult professionals. In addition, a team of high school madrichim (teen leaders) assist in running programs and serving as role models for participants.
What about medical or dietary needs?
We are committed to accommodating allergies, medications, and special needs. Please provide details on your registration form and contact us with any questions. All meals are kosher.
What if my child has never been away overnight?
That’s okay! ShabbabaFest is designed as a welcoming, supportive first overnight Jewish experience.
Other Details
What should participants bring?
A packing list will be emailed to all registered families closer to the event. Essentials will include: comfortable clothing, Shabbat clothes, toiletries, sneakers, warm layers, and sleeping gear.
Who do I contact with questions?
Reach out to Parker Weber at pweber@uscj.org.