In the Greater Community

Celebrate the Jewish Holiday of Sukkot
A Harvest of Healing and Thanksgiving
Visit Stanford's Medicine's Sukkah
300 Pasteur Fountain

1. Weekdays, October 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Enjoy a light snack and an opportunity to wave the lulav and etrog.

2. October 6 (Sundown) to October 13 (Nightfall)
Sit in the Sukkah and experience this temporary shelter. Enjoy the shade; bring your meal or a snack to eat; discover the relationship; of this Jewish holiday to health and healing;  add your thanks or wishes for healing to our prayer chains.
Learn more at jfcs.org/jewishchaplaincy

Pan Flute Concert: Music of the Jewish Soul
Saturday, October 11, 4:00 PM

Experience an unforgettable evening of music that speaks directly to the soul. At the heart of this unique concert is the pan flute, whose pure, ethereal tones blend beautifully with violin, piano and other traditional instruments, creating a powerful, emotional soundscape. The program includes beloved Jewish melodies such as Mayn Shtetele Belz, Ashreinu, Tanz Yidelekh, My Yiddishe Momme and many more—reimagined with warmth, depth and spiritual resonance. LEARN MORE & REGISTER

Book Discussion
Sunday, October 26, 10:00 AM, Congregation Shir Hadash, Los Gatos

The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict is a historical novel about Hedy Lamarr, who escaped the Nazis to become a legendary actress in Hollywood and invent a scientific system that helped revolutionize modern communication. Visit shirhadash.org/calendar to learn more and RSVP.
 

An Evening of Remembrance 
Sunday, October 5, 5:30-7:30 PM, Freidenrich Community Park
Oshman Family JCC on the Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life
 
As we approach the two-year mark of the horrific October 7, we are still living it — in our grief, in our longing, in our fight to bring them home. Join for a community event that will feature a remembrance ceremony, moving art installations, and powerful photographic exhibits. Through personal stories, creative expression and communal reflection, we remember not only what was lost, but also what still binds us: resilience, solidarity and the belief in a future healed. This is a space for memory. For togetherness. For holding each other and holding on. A space to honor those we lost on October 7, and to hope that ALL the hostages will be released soon! Attendance is free, but requires an RSVP. The event will be in English and will take place outdoors. Please dress accordingly. REGISTER

Film and Discussion: Silicon Valley Jewish Communal Gathering Commemorating October 7th
October 16, 7:00-9:30 PM, 3 Below Theatres in Downtown San Jose

The State of Israel has dedicated the 24th of Tishrei, which falls this year on October 16th, as a day of remembrance for the horrific events of October 7, 2023. Jewish Silicon Valley and other incredible supporters — JCC Association, The Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, and 3Below Theatres — are honored to present this year's annual community gathering, a special screening of the film The New Jew: Days of War"and community discussion following the film.

In the wake of October 7, Jewish communities worldwide have faced a dramatic shift in how they are seen — and how they see themselves. This powerful film captures the lived reality of American Jews during a time of heightened fear, fractured dialogue, and urgent conversations about identity and belonging. It offers a rare space to process these changes with compassion, humor, and humanity. Stay for a discussion facilitated by local Jewish leaders as we navigate our collective thoughts and share our lived experiences together in community.

Price: $16 | REGISTER

Sukkot Party in the Sukkah
Sunday, October 12, 3:30 PM, Congregation Beth Jacob, Redwood City

Bring a blanket and join JBN’s Carol Booth and Congregation Beth Jacob’s Cantor Barbara in the CBJ Sukkah where we will enjoy fruit and other snacks as we celebrate the Fall harvest with lots of nature-themed play, crafts, and songs. Come ready to shake the lulav, sing, dance, and make new friends! REGISTER

NextGen Shabbat, With Senator Scott Weiner
Friday, October 24, 6:00–8:30 PM | JFCS San Francisco

What does it mean to lead with values in today’s world? Join JFCS’ NextGen for a special Shabbat evening with California Senator Wiener. He will discuss how his Jewish identity has shaped his journey in public service. Open to all young adults in the Bay Area. LEARN MORE & REGISTER