Returning JewishFest Promises Music, Art, Crafts & Food

LITCHFIELD — Jewish heritage will be celebrated Labor Day weekend at an outdoor arts festival in northwest Connecticut.

JewishFest will present its 13th annual Jewish Music and Arts Festival, featuring live bands, art exhibits, and traditional fare. Organizers expect thousands to attend the event, which will take place on Sunday, September 5, from 12:30 to 7 pm, and Monday, September 6, from 10:30 am to 5 pm, at White Memorial Conservation, 80 Whitehall Road.

Building on the success of the JewishFest held each summer for the past 12 years, JewishFest’s musical acts will challenge common stereotypes about the genre of Jewish music.

“We want to dispel the perception that Jewish culture is all about ‘oy, oy, oy’ and Fiddler on the Roof,” said Rabbi Joseph Eisenbach, who, together with his wife Mina, founded the JewishFest 13 years ago. “We want to show that you can have a really good time in a Jewish context.”

New York- style kosher deli and Israeli delicacies will be available throughout the festival. A large selection of Jewish art and Judaica, as well as all the New Year needs, will be for sale.

Lessons in 20 Jewish craft making for children and adults will be ongoing throughout the festival. Crafts will include making a Hanukkah menorah, havdalah candle, Shofar, and yarmulke, baking a challah, and design Jewish sand art.

The festival will run rain or shine. Some seating is available, but attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs.

Admission is $4 in advance ($13 family) or $5 at the door ($18); tickets can be purchased online at JewishFest.org.

Visit the website or call 888-310-6864 for additional information.

Volunteers are also needed for the event. Visit the website for details about opportunities for volunteers from all faiths.