Sukkot, which literally translates to “booths” or “huts,” is akin to a fall harvest festival. It’s a holiday that celebrates all God gives, both in terms of crops and shelter. Eating, dwelling, and even sleeping in the sukkah commemorates the time of Jews living in huts while wandering the desert for 40 years.
While not everyone is able to build a sukkah in their backyard, plenty of opportunities to gather in one exist in Tidewater. In fact, most area congregations offer various events, meals, and other occasions for congregants, friends, and guests to enjoy time in their sukkahs – most constructed each year by volunteers.
In addition to congregation-sponsored events, NextGen757, a community group for young Jewish adults, is hosting a five-event series across Tidewater for the holiday, each one held at a different local congregation. According to Hannah Yasemsky, NextGen’s Engagement coordinator, that is by design.
“I wanted the NextGen community to be able to meet all our local synagogues here in a fun and festive way,” she says – something looser than a typical Shabbat service, but “so very Jewish at the same time,” rooted in a shared sense of community and belonging.
For those hoping to build their own sukkah or take up the lulav and etrog at home, several online retailers ship nationwide in time for the holiday. The Sukkah Project (sukkot.com) sells both DIY sukkah kits and lulav-and-etrog sets sourced through Pri Hadar, a longtime supplier of the four species.
EasyEtrog.com and GotEtrog.com both offer kosher lulav-and-etrog sets from Israel, with shipping typically beginning shortly after Rosh Hashanah to ensure freshness for Sukkot, which begins the evening of September 25. Judaica.com is another option for ordering the four species online. Given shipping windows, those interested should plan to order at least a week or two ahead of the holiday.
Whether attending a community Sukkot event, or enjoying a sukkah built in the backyard, there’s a way to mark Sukkot for nearly every kind of celebrant this year. Festive or reflective, family-friendly or adults-only, newcomer or lifelong congregant – Tidewater’s Jewish community has plenty of ways to celebrate the Jewish harvest season, however close to home each person chooses to bring it.
Sukkot with NextGen
United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s NextGen has myriad plans for Sukkot at venues throughout the community. NextGen is for Jewish adults, ages 22 – 45ish.
All Sukkot events can be found at www.Jewishva.org/Nextgen, where registration, which is required, can take place. For additional information, contact Hannah Yasemsky, NextGen engagement coordinator, at 757-470-8080 or Hyasemsky@ujft.org.
Oktoberfest in the Sukkah
Friday, September 25, 7:30 pm
TIDE B’nai Israel
This NextGen Oktoberfest-themed Yom Tov/Shabbat dinner takes place in B’nai Israel’s Sukkah. Inspired by the lively spirit of Munich’s Oktoberfest—known for its warm hospitality, festive flavors, and fun atmosphere—this gathering brings a Bavarian twist to one of Judaism’s most joyful harvest holidays. $10 per person. Registration required.
Under the Stars: Sukkah & Cinema
Sunday, September 27, 6 pm, Temple Israel
Celebrate Sukkot with UJFT’s NextGen and Temple Israel at a cozy Pop-Up Sukkah experience. Gather for a delicious meal in the sukkah, then settle in for a cinema screening of the acclaimed Israeli film Ushpizin. Bring a favorite blanket, cushion, or pillow, get comfortable, and enjoy an evening of holiday tradition, good food, and great company. Free to attend, registration required.
Pop-up Sukkah Social
Wednesday, September 30, 6:30 pm, Ohef Sholom Temple
NextGen teams up with Ohef Sholom Temple for an unforgettable pop-up Sukkot celebration. Come out for an evening of great company, lively games, music under the stars, and fire pits to gather around – all centered around a delicious, harvest-themed meal. Free to attend, registration required.
Sukkah Hoppin’ and Craftin’
Thursday, October 1, 6 pm, Congregation Beth El
Celebrate Sukkot with UJFT’s NextGen and Congregation Beth El at an evening designed for connection and creativity with two distinct gatherings for NextGen families and young adults. Join for one session—or make a night of it and stay for both! Free to attend, registration required.
Family and kid-friendly Sukkah fun time • 6 – 7:30 pm. Bring the entire family into the sukkah for interactive, holiday-inspired activities, hands-on fun, pizza, and meaningful time together.
NextGen singles and adults gathering • 7:30 – 9 pm. Enjoy a guided discussion, appetizers, and an art activity led by Hannah Yasemsky and local creative specialist Sharon Serbin.
Sukkah Happy Hour with NextGen and KBH
Monday, September 28, 5:30 pm Sandler Family Campus
Join United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s NextGen and Kehillat Bet Hamidrash (KBH) for a special Sukkah Happy Hour. Hosted in the Sukkah on the Sandler Family Campus, this festive evening offers an opportunity to mingle with the community while enjoying appetizers, drinks, and lively lawn games.Join United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s NextGen and Kehillat Bet Hamidrash (KBH) for a special Sukkah Happy Hour. Hosted in the Sukkah on the Sandler Family Campus, this festive evening offers an opportunity to mingle with the community while enjoying appetizers, drinks, and lively lawn games.
Sukkot with Temple Emanuel:
a three-day event marathon
Monday, Sept. 28 – Wednesday, Sept. 30, Temple Emanuel
Temple Emanuel is hosting a three-day event Sukkot marathon. It opens with the Ahavah Women’s Club potluck dinner, followed by Burgers & Brews in the Sukkah ($15), and closes with a lunch and conversation titled, Fragility, Strength, and Us as part of Emanuel’s Adult Education Program.
For information, go to tevb.org.