This year’s Jewish Food and Culture Fest was a vibrant celebration of our heritage filled with energy and enthusiasm.
“The feedback on the indoor/outdoor format — with the event stretching from the senior lounge to the gym — has been overwhelmingly positive,” says CEO Brooke Bowles. “And it was a particular joy to share the Legacy Courtyard with its largest audience since its completion last fall. Seeing the space filled with laughter and conversation was the perfect realization of its purpose.”
Throughout the day, volunteers embodied the spirit of hachnasat orchim | welcoming the stranger. They were a constant source of warmth and guidance — whether it was helping a first-timer navigate the menu or sharing history about our community. And the small army of volunteers had already spent countless hours preparing food in The J’s kosher kitchen.
We also owe a debt of gratitude to the event sponsors, led by presenting sponsor the Bernstein Family.
Corned beef triumphs
The competition was stiff on the culinary front, but the corned beef sandwiches officially took the title of top seller for the day. We also heard rave reviews about one of our newest menu additions: the New York-style deli slaw.
“The festival’s success is a testament to the strength of our local network,” adds Brooke. “We were honored to be joined by vendors and activity sponsors who contribute daily to the richness of Jewish life in our region,” including:
- Alabama Holocaust Education Center
- Birmingham Jewish Federation and Foundation
- Chabad of Alabama
- Collat Jewish Family Service
- Jewish Fertility Foundation
- Knesseth Israel
- N.E. Miles Jewish Day School
- Temple Emanu-El
The atmosphere was kept bright all day by a wonderful selection of music. For those who want to keep the celebration going or take a small piece of the festival home with them, check out the day’s Jewish playlist.
Photos
As usual, thanks to Kristina O’Quinn for taking some pics (use password “Challah” to view her full album).
Simply click on each image to enlarge.
