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Aaron: How long have you been in DC? Evan: I moved here in July 2011 after graduating. I was a Political Science and History major in college, so DC was a natural landing place for me after graduation. I also spent two summers interning here while in college and really liked the time I spent here, so I knew I wanted to come back full-time.
Aaron: What are your favorite DC activities? Evan: I try to get involved in a lot of activities to keep myself busy and meet new people. I’ve played kickball and flag football the last two years with friends, which has been really fun (especially the post-game celebrations…that’s the point!). I’m looking forward to a shuffleboard league I’m doing in January with some people from work. I try to take advantage of concerts, sporting events, and a lot of the culture DC has to offer. I’m also a big foodie and love trying new restaurants – I feel like I’m always giving my friends dinner recommendations.
Aaron: What is the best part of being Jewish in DC? Evan: I like the fact that that there are so many groups and organizations that encourage young people to get involved. I think it’s really easy to be engaged in college with an active Hillel, but that doesn’t always translate into the “real world” when everyone is on a different schedule and people live far apart. Between Federation, the JCC, and other organizations (like Gather the Jews!), there are so many opportunities to stay connected with the Jewish community.
Aaron: Have you been to any cool Hanukkah events so far? Evan: I went to a few happy hours over the last couple of days, like the Hanukkah Happy Hour on Monday night which was a lot of fun. I’ve also been trying to light candles every night with friends, although it’s not as good as home when I get a present every night.
Aaron: What is your favorite Jewish food? Latkas? Evan: Latkas with applesauce is definitely my favorite Hanukkah food, but for my favorite Jewish food I have to go with my grandma’s matzo ball soup and brisket. She makes it every year for Rosh Hashanah and it’s the best part of the holiday. Also my favorite food: the first thing to break the fast on Yom Kippur.
Aaron: Where can we find you on a Friday night? Evan: It really depends. You could find me at a Shabbat dinner, a show, or going out with friends in Chinatown or on U Street, and probably at Jumbo Slice at some point during the night. Now that it’s getting colder, Poste has outdoor heat lamps which makes it a cool (no pun intended) place to get a drink as well.
Aaron: Who is the coolest Jew? Evan: I can’t curb my enthusiasm for Larry David.
Aaron: What happens when the Jews gather? Evan: Eating, drinking, and playing Jewish geography (or at least that what happens to me at every Jewish event in DC!).
