DMV High Holiday Guide 2026 / 5787

Meet Me at the Bench with GatherDC

• Want to connect before heading to Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur services? Whether you’re trying out a new synagogue, attending services for the first time, or just want to meet someone else in their 20s or 30s, GatherDC’s Meet Me at the Bench is for you! Fill out this form and we’ll help you find your benchmate!

Table of Togetherness: Rosh Hashanah with Temple Rodef Shalom

• Meals on Sunday, September 13th
• “If you are seeking a seat, please use the form below, and we will do our best to make a meaningful match. Together, we can share the warmth and joy of the holidays as one community.”

Sukkot Meal Match with Ohev Sholom Congregation

• Deadline to complete form is September 18th
• “Fill out this form if you are looking for a meal in a sukkah, or if you have a sukkah and can host others.”

Sunday, August 16th

• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • Register by August 12th
  • “As the High Holy Days draw near, join us for a morning of fresh air, meaningful conversation, and Jewish learning in the outdoors.”

Thursday, August 20th

• 8:15 p.m. — Pre Rosh Hashana Class with Rabbi Shafner with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • “Join Rabbi Shafner for a class over zoom to learn ‘You have made them a bit Less than God: The majesty and humility of the human being in the Yomim Noraim prayers’.”

Saturday, August 22nd

• 1:00 p.m. — Reva Nature Walk: Elul with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Join Reva, Adas Israel’s community for 20s, 30s, and early 40s, on Saturday, August 22, for an Elul Nature Walk through Tregaron Conservancy. We’ll enjoy a peaceful walk and reflect on the themes of Elul as we prepare for the High Holidays.”

Sunday, August 23rd

• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • Register by August 19th
  • “As the High Holy Days draw near, join us for a morning of fresh air, meaningful conversation, and Jewish learning in the outdoors.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Kever Avot: Congregational Cemetery Visit with Ohev Sholom
  • Register by August 16th
  • Communal prayers and reflection, with time afterward to visit family graves.

Tuesday, August 25th

• 6:30 p.m. — High Holidays Cheat Code: Understanding Services from the Inside with Sixth & I
  • “In this class led by guest Rabbi Jason Kimelman-Block, learn about the structure, symbolism, and theology of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.”

Thursday, August 27th

• 11:59 p.m. — Order Deadline for Honey from the Heart with Women of Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Wish friends and family a sweet New Year with Honey from the Heart. Help Women of WHC continue to provide financial support for Temple and community programs.”

Sunday, August 30th

• 9:30 a.m. — Prepare for the High Holidays: Text & Flow with Hill Havurah
  • “Join Rabbi Hannah for a meaningful morning of learning, movement, and community as we begin preparing our hearts and minds for the High Holidays.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Annual Cemetery Memorial Service with Temple Micah
  • “Just before Rosh Hashanah each year, we gather at Mount Lebanon Cemetery for a memorial service. This name aptly teaches us that we begin a new year by remembering and honoring our past. We look backward at our loved ones even as we move forward.”
• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • Register by August 26th
  • “As the High Holy Days draw near, join us for a morning of fresh air, meaningful conversation, and Jewish learning in the outdoors.”
• 1:00 p.m. — Elul Retreat with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Join us for a transformative experience dedicated to the Hebrew month of Elul, a sacred time of personal reflection, renewal, and spiritual preparation for the High Holidays.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Songs from the Beit Midrash: Album Release Concert with Rabbi Deborah Sacks Mintz with Hadar DC and Adas Israel Congregation
  • “This gathering brings the music off the recording and into shared space for an evening of song, learning, and communal joy.”

Monday, August 31st

• 6:30 p.m. — Fluff, Density & Soul: A Matzah Ball Workshop with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Get ready for the Jewish New Year with WHC and Valerie Zweig, Prescription Chicken’s founder and chef, during an evening that features cooking, science, and soulful connection.”

Tuesday, September 1st

• 9:00 a.m. — Lulav and Etrog Set Order Deadline with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • “Each set consists of an Etrog, Lulov (palm branch) with its palm holder, Hadassim (myrtle branches), and Arovoth (willow branches). You will also receive a basic guide containing a list of all the Brochoth (blessings) and Halochoth (laws) of the four species. The Etrogim are under strict Rabbinical supervision.”
• 7:00 p.m. — I Will Be What I Will Be: Teshuva, the New Year, and Becoming Ourselves with Hadar DC, DC Minyan, and the EDCJCC
  • “Join Hadar for a community learning session exploring repentance, our capacity to change, and the challenges of beginning again.”

Wednesday, September 2nd

• 6:30 p.m. — Shofar Lessons with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Interested in learning how to blow shofar? Stop by any time between 6:30 and 7:30 for lessons or refreshers. We have shofars to borrow, but please bring your own if you have one! Open to all ages.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Queering Tashlich with GLOE
  • “Come celebrate new beginnings. At this tashlich ceremony for the queer community, we’ll gather together to let go of what’s no longer serving us and move into the new year lighter.”

Friday, September 4th

• 6:30 p.m. — Selichot Shabbat with Temple Sinai
  • “At this in-the-round service we will begin to hear the familiar musical themes of the holidays and change the Torah covers to white as we mark our final Shabbat of preparation before the Days of Awe.”

Saturday, September 5th

• 6:30 p.m. — Selichot and Havdalah with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Usher in the High Holiday season with Selichot—an evening of community, reflection, and renewal.”
• 7:00 p.m. — S’lichot: An Evening of Connection & Rededication with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “S’lichot is an opportunity to gather as a congregation, rededicate ourselves and our sacred spaces, and begin the High Holy Day season with intention and purpose.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Havdalah and Selichot with Hill Havurah
  • “We’ll re-enter the High Holiday season through melody, dressing the Torah, and thinking through our past year. Light refreshments will be served.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Selichot & Havdalah Service with Temple Micah
  • “Join us for a contemplative evening as we officially begin the High Holy Day season. This is a great opportunity to prepare for the new year.”
• 8:00 p.m. — S’lichot Dessert Reception & Service with Temple Rodef Shalom and Congregation Etz Hayim
  • “Held just before Rosh Hashanah, this special evening helps us prepare spiritually through reflection, inspiration, and intention. We begin with a short program of learning, followed by a reception. Then, in a beautiful service led by all our clergy, we hear the High Holy Day melodies for the first time, change the Torah covers to white, and hear the season’s first blast of the Shofar.”
• 8:30 p.m. — Selichot: Havdalah + Singing Circle with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 2nd
  • “As we prepare our hearts for the High Holy Days, join us for an evening of music, reflection, and community.”
• 8:30 p.m. — Selichot Service with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This tradition invites us to open ourselves up to the essential work of the High Holy Days: the process of repair and return, of acknowledgment and longing. Please join Adas clergy and your community for a one-of-a-kind evening of personal reflection through song and text.”
• 10:00 p.m. — Pre-Selichot Kumzitz with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 10:15 p.m. — First Night Selichot with Ohev Sholom 
  • “Musical Melava Malka and Pre-Selichot Gathering with Tisch, led by Rachel Milner Gillers with Joseph Chung, Glenn Dynner, Nahanni Rous, and Ned Lazarus. 11:15pm, Selichot, led by David Gillers.”
• 11:00 p.m. — Selichot with Kesher Israel Congregation

Sunday, September 6th

• 2:00 p.m. — Challah Making: Rosh Hashanah with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “Learn to make the best round challah for Rosh Hashanah! Raisins are optional, but strongly encouraged for a sweet start to the New Year.”
• 6:00 p.m. — DC Tikkun Circle: New Beginnings with Jewish Vegan Life
  • “With Rosh Hashanah just around the corner, this is an opportunity to pause, reflect on the year behind us, and think about the year we want to create together.”

Tuesday, September 8th

• 7:00 p.m. — Remember & Return: Sarah, Hannah & the Work of Becoming with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 4th
  • “Join Rabbi Anna Wolfe, the Den’s Community Rabbi, for an intimate evening of Jewish learning and conversation exploring Sarah and Hannah’s stories as a lens into the deeper work of teshuvah.”
• 11:59 p.m. — Lulav and Etrog Order Deadline with Ohev Sholom

Wednesday, September 9th

• 4:30 p.m. — Shofar Blast 5787 with the EDCJCC
  • “Join the entire EDCJCC community for our annual Shofar Blast – a chance to hear the shofar, dip apples into honey, and toast to the New Year.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashana Challah Bake + Learn with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 4th
  • “Welcome the sweetness of the New Year with an evening of baking, learning, and community!”

Thursday, September 10th

• 9:00 a.m. — 5 Day Rosh Hashanah YJP Retreat Begins with Hamsa Nomads
  • “Hamsa Nomads is hosting a small Rosh Hashanah retreat for young Jewish professionals in the Vermont mountains, September 10–14.”
• 7:00 p.m. — New Year’s Erev Bash with Luv with Lev
  • “Whether you’re hoping to meet someone special, connect with friends, or simply start 5787 surrounded by an incredible Jewish community, this is the perfect way to kick off a sweet new year.”
• 11:59 p.m. — Lulav and Etrog Set Order Deadline with Kesher Israel Congregation

Friday, September 11th

• 6:00 a.m. — Selichot, Shacharit, & Hatarat Nedarim with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 6:00 p.m. — Reform Services with GW Hillel
• 6:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Dinner with 2239
  • “Come together with our 20s and 30s community to find strength and joy during the High Holy Days at Washington Hebrew Congregation.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Candle Lighting with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 6:15 p.m. — Conservative Services with GW Hillel
• 6:15 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Evening Services with Chabad East DC
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah Services and Apples and Honey with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:30 p.m. — Evening Service in the Sanctuary with Temple Sinai
  • “Welcome in Rosh HaShanah with a service meant to open your heart to connection, expand your mind to new Torah, and fill your ears with song.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah: Community Sunset Service with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Mincha & Festival Evening Service with Congregation Beth El
• 6:45 p.m. — Mincha / Maariv with DC Minyan
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah Services with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Interfaith Families Project
  • “Join the Interfaith Families Project (IFFP) for our warm, inclusive High Holy Days services—created especially with interfaith families in mind. Whether you’re Jewish, part of an interfaith family, or simply seeking meaningful spiritual connection, our Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services offer a welcoming space for reflection, renewal, and community.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kaleidoscope Rosh Hashanah Seder with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Evening Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 7:05 p.m. — Mincha/Maariv with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 7:30 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Reston Shoreshim
  • “It is Reston Shoreshim’s honor and tradition to invite the wider Jewish community to join with us during our High Holidays observances at no cost, and without the need for tickets.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Rosh Hashana Community Seder & Dinner with Magen David Sephardic Congregation
  • Register by August 31st
• 7:30 p.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Come together with our 20s and 30s community to find strength and joy during the High Holy Days at Washington Hebrew Congregation.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Services with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Evening Service with Am Kolel
• 8:00 p.m. — Rosh Ha Shana Evening I with Bet Mishpachah
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
• 8:00 p.m. — Evening Alternative Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Join Rabbi Alexandra Stein and soloist Beth Mirahver to welcome in the new year with song, community, reflection and a really great view!”
• 11:00 p.m. — Selichot with Kesher Israel Congregation

Saturday, September 12th

• 8:00 a.m. — Shacharit with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 8:15 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Services with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 8:15 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Traditional Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 8:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah, Day One with Ohev Sholom
  • “Shacharit 8:30am with a sermon by Rabbi Wolkenfeld”
• 8:30 a.m. — Shachrit / Musafwith DC Minyan
• 8:45 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah 1st Day Services with Segulah Minyan
• 9:00 a.m. — Festival Morning Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Livestream available
• 9:00 a.m. — Day I Morning Service with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 9:00 a.m. — Full Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Service and Lunch with Chabad East DC
• 9:00 a.m. — 1st Day Rosh Hashanah Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom as well. We are proud to continue our tradition of opening our services to everyone with no tickets or reservations required.”
• 9:15 a.m. — Bethesda Morning Services with Temple Sinai
  • “The service will be interactive and casual in style.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Am Kolel
• 9:30 a.m. — Main Morning Service with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Hill Havurah
• 10:00 a.m. — Free Rosh Hashanah Services with the Maryland School for Jewish Education
  • “Our community High Holiday services are open to everyone—whether you’re deeply connected to Jewish tradition, reconnecting, part of an interfaith family, new to the area, or simply looking for a meaningful place to celebrate.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Kol Haneshama Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Kol Haneshama is a multi-sensory experience through the days of awe liturgy that encourages encounter with self, community, and the richness of Jewish tradition. Join us for communal prayer, study, meditation, singing, and transformation that will help you re-anchor yourself for a season of a renewal and healing, and find self-expression in the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Park Service with Congregation Beth El
  • “The Outdoor High Holiday Service includes all of the highlights of a traditional High Holiday service in a more casual setting.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Reform Services with GW Hillel
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning with Interfaith Families Project
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day with Reston Shoreshim
  • “It is Reston Shoreshim’s honor and tradition to invite the wider Jewish community to join with us during our High Holidays observances at no cost, and without the need for tickets.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day Morning Service with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 10:00 a.m. — Morning Service in the Sanctuary with Temple Sinai
  • “Let the sound of the shofar fill your ears and the joyful experience of the full capacity sanctuary lift your hearts as we enter this new year together in song and study.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Ha Shana Morning I with Bet Mishpachah
• 10:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Come together with our 20s and 30s community to find strength and joy during the High Holy Days at Washington Hebrew Congregation.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Sanctuary Service with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
• 11:00 a.m. — Adult Service with Beth Chai
• 11:00 a.m. — Alternative Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Join Rabbi Sarah Tasman, soloist Beth Mirahver, with band accompaniment, for an alternative daytime service. Like all our services, this one will provide many opportunities to connect to the themes of the holy days, and to each other, and like all our alternative services, it will be more intimate and informal in style.”
• 11:30 a.m. — Bethesda Morning Services with Temple Sinai
  • “The service will be interactive and casual in style.”
• 11:45 a.m. — Spirit of Rosh Hashanah Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 12:00 p.m. — What Would Bubbe Do? with Sixth & I
  • “Our bubbe brigade pops up around the city to offer timeless advice for problems big and small.”
• 12:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Lunch with Sixth & I
  • “Plant yourself in 5787 by starting the year off with plant-based tacos at our neighborhood restaurant, Chaia Tacos. Go out on a limb to meet new people, and enjoy apples and honey for a sweet start to the year.”
• 2:00 p.m. — Tashlich Picnic with Kol Ami
  • In-person only at a public park
• 2:00 p.m. — Condensed Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 4:00 p.m. — Tashlich with Hill Havurah
  • “Sing, reflect, and symbolically let go of the past year at the Kayak Dock in Yards Park on the Anacostia River with Rabbi Hannah and Michael Allen.”
• 4:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Temple Sinai
  • “Join Rabbi Roos and Cantor Rhodes for Tashlich on the afternoon of Rosh HaShanah. Bring your shofar and join the communal shofar blasts as we symbolically ‘cast our sins upon the waters.'”
• 6:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Mincha / Maariv with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Afternoon/Evening Services with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 6:50 p.m. — Festival Evening Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 7:05 p.m. — Mincha and Maariv with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 8:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Evening Service Day 1 with Chabad East DC
• 8:02 p.m. — Candle Lighting and Havdalah with Kesher Israel Congregation

Sunday, September 13th

• 8:00 a.m. — Shacharit with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 8:15 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Services with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 8:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah, Day Two with Ohev Sholom
  • “Shacharit 8:30am with a sermon. Shofar approximately 10:45am. Afternoon shofar at 5:15pm, then at 5:45pm we walk together for Tashlich by Rock Creek. Cider and Donuts, weather permitting. Mincha 7:00pm followed by a shiur from Rabbi Wolkenfeld.”
• 8:30 a.m. — Shachrit / Musaf with DC Minyan
• 8:45 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day Services with Segulah Minyan
• 9:00 a.m. — Festival Morning Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 9:00 a.m. — Day II Morning Services with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Service and Lunch with Chabad East DC
• 9:00 a.m. — 2nd Day Rosh Hashanah Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom as well. We are proud to continue our tradition of opening our services to everyone with no tickets or reservations required.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Traditional Rosh Hashanah Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 10:00 a.m. — History of Jewish Washington with Off the Mall Tours
  • “Join guest guide Ami Greener on a fascinating walking tour about notable Jewish people in DC history. This tour goes through the Gallery Place and Judiciary Square neighborhoods, highlighting the stories of Jewish-American Washingtonians who made their mark.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Am Kolel
  • “Rosh Hashanah Morning Service followed by potluck Kiddush lunch”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Family Service with Chabad East DC
  • “Join us for a special Rosh Hashanah Family Service, filled with engaging prayers, fun activities, and sweet treats! Perfect for families to celebrate and learn about the Jewish New Year.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Ha Shana Morning II with Bet Mishpachah
• 10:00 a.m. — Tashlich Service with Temple Micah
  • “The Tashlich ceremony offers us a chance to symbolically cast our wrongdoings of the previous year into the water and begin the new year with a fresh start.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 11:30 a.m. — Alternative Musaf Singing Circle with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Join Rabbi Krinsky, Micah Hendler and Rabbi Daniel Novick for a spiritual musaf anchored by communal song. Sitting in concentric circles, we will move through the musical moments of the liturgy, immersing ourselves in the service’s grounding melodies.”
• 12:30 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Luncheon with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 1:00 p.m. — Apples and Cider for Rosh Hashanah with Rodef 2100
  • “Help us ring in a sweet new year! On Sunday, September 13, we’ll head to Doc Waters Cidery. Enjoy apple picking, cider-drinking, or just hanging out in the sunshine of a new Jewish year!”
• 1:30 p.m. — Kaleidoscope and Queer Space Families Picnic with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 1:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Am Kolel
• 2:00 p.m. — Faith and Vision: What are we building? with Abrahamic House
  • “Join us for an interactive evening of reflection, creativity, and connection as we explore how our faith, values, and personal hopes shape the lives we are building. Participants will create vision boards focused on the remainder of the year while reflecting on themes of purpose, intention, growth, community, and service.”
• 3:30 p.m. — Shofar in Lincoln Park with Chabad East DC
  • “Hear the shofar, explore our shofar display, and enjoy apples and honey, honey cake, Rosh Hashanah songs, and all the shofar sounds!”
• 3:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 4:00 p.m. — Tashlich with Congregation Beth El
  •  “Instead of bringing bread, please consider bringing items that are friendly and safe for local wildlife such as cracked corn, oats, rice, birdseed, frozen peas, chopped lettuce, or sliced grapes.”
• 4:00 p.m. — Tashlich and Tekiyat Shofar with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 4:30 p.m. — Shofar in the Park with Chabad of Potomac
• 4:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 4:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “Join us for a unique spiritual Tashlich as we cast our sins away into the fast river. Experience this ritual to identify and cleanse our sins in preparation for Yom Kippur.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Tashlich Experience with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “On Rosh Hashanah, there is a special ceremony where we traditionally go to an ocean, stream, or river to pray and throw breadcrumbs into the water. This serves to symbolically release the things we wish to let go of and set our intention for the coming year.”
• 5:15 p.m. — Shofar Experience in Lincoln Park with Chabad East DC
  • “Hear the shofar, explore the Shofar display, and join us for apples, honey, and a festive family dinner buffet!”
• 5:30 p.m. — Tashlich with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 6:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Mincha / Maariv with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Mincha and Maariv with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 8:00 p.m. — Havdalah with Kesher Israel Congregation

Monday, September 14th

• 5:30 p.m. — Tashlich with GW Hillel

Tuesday, September 15th

• 6:30 p.m. — Maryland Tashlich with GatherDC
  • Register by September 13th
  • “You might find yourself wondering: How does it feel to say goodbye to the year that came before? What does it mean to start a year afresh? What can I toss, and what can I keep?”
• 7:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashana Paint & Sip with Moishe House Arlington
  • “Join us for a cozy weeknight of unwinding with a paintbrush in hand.”
• 7:00 p.m. — The Gates Are Still Open: A Community Discussion on the Ten Days of Teshuvah with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “With Rabbi Alan Lew z”l as our teacher, we will discuss sections of his 2003 classic book, This Is Real And You Are Completely Unprepared: The Days of Awe as a Journey of Transformation.”

Wednesday, September 16th

• 6:30 p.m. — NoVA Tashlich with GatherDC and Rodef 2100
  • Register by September 14th
  • “You might find yourself wondering: How does it feel to say goodbye to the year that came before? What does it mean to start a year afresh? What can I toss, and what can I keep?”
• 7:00 p.m. — Preparing to Let Go: A Creative Practice for the New Year with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 11th
  • “Join Rabbi Anna for a creative and experiential evening of reflection, release, and renewal.”
• 9:00 p.m. — High Holiday Parlor Concert with SHIN-DC
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Followed by Kosher Holiday refreshments”

Thursday, September 17th

• 6:30 p.m. — Honest to Goodness: A Teshuvah Workshop with Sixth & I
  • “Drawing on the Jewish ethical practice Mussar, Chassidic wisdom, and the surprising story of Yehuda, you’ll be guided through reflection, visioning, and concrete intention-setting across four dimensions of our lives: our relationships, our bodies, our spiritual lives, and our relationship to the planet.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Connecting Through Memory: A Yizkor Workshop for Yom Kippur with SVIVAH
  • Virtual event
  • “Join us in this touchpoint to Yizkor as we explore this opportunity for remembering and connecting in community. We will use guided meditation, writing and discussion to deepen the intentionality that Yizkor holds. Expect an experiential-rich evening together, and know that you will not need to share unless you choose to do so.”

Saturday, September 19th

• 10:30 a.m. — Reflect and Stroll: Tashlich with Jewish Women International
  • “Join JWI on the morning of September 19 for a meaningful and refreshing Tashlich experience. We’ll gather for a brief Tashlich service, taking a moment to note what we’re ready to leave behind and make space for the year ahead.”
• 11:00 a.m. — Shabbat of Six: Brunch, Toast to New Year, & Apple Picking with Stacy’s Social Circles
  • “Kick off the Jewish New Year with Stacy’s Social Circles for brunch, new connections, reflection, and all the fall vibes!”
• 5:15 p.m. — Shabbat Shuvah Drasha with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • “Join Rabbi Shafner for the annual Shabbat Shuvah Drasha on Shabbat afternoon, September 19 at 5:15 PM.  The topic will be  ‘Faith and Heresy: Is Repentence Always Possible?‘
• 8:00 p.m. — Sins & S’mores with NextUp Beth El
  • “Gather with other Jewish young professionals (20s & 30s) for Havdalah, wine, roasted marshmallows & chocolate, and a different spin on the Tashlich experience around the firepit.”

Sunday, September 20th

• 8:45 a.m. — Sukkah Building with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • “Please join us following Sunday Shacharit to build the communal sukkot at the shul and Rose Park. Contact Rabbi Shafner for more information. All are welcome!”
• 10:00 a.m. — Kayaking Tashlich on the Potomac River with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 16th
  • “Join us on the Potomac River for one of our most meaningful annual traditions of the High Holy Day season.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Reverse Tashlich Trash Cleanup with Living Classrooms and the EDCJCC
  • Register by 3:00 p.m. on September 18th
  • “Spend a morning giving back by cleaning trash from the Anacostia River with Living Classrooms.”
• 11:00 a.m. — DC Tashlich with GatherDC and Sixth & I 
  • Register by September 18th
  • “Join us for Tashlich — a Jewish ritual in which we toss pieces of bread, pebbles, leaves, or sticks into a body of water to symbolically cast away regrets or disappointments from the past year.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Yom Kippur Virtual Services with Jewish Grad Organization
  • Virtual event
  • “Join Jewish grad students, alumni, and executives from across North America for an inspiring evening featuring Kol Nidre prayers and meaningful talks from JGO educators, including Rabbi Dave Sorani & Rabbi Matt Rosenberg.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Evening Service in the Sanctuary with Temple Sinai
  • “Enter the drama and majesty of Yom Kippur with our Kol Nidrei service.”
• 6:15 p.m. — Instrumental Music with Congregation Etz Hayim
• 6:20 p.m. — Kol Haneshama Service with Congregation Beth El
• 6:20 p.m. — Mincha with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:30 p.m. — Conservative Services with GW Hillel
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre Services with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre and Ma’ariv Services – Yom Kippur with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom as well. We are proud to continue our tradition of opening our services to everyone with no tickets or reservations required.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Reform Services with GW Hillel
• 6:30 p.m. — Yom Kippur Evening Services with Segulah Minyan
• 6:35 p.m. — Mincha/Kol Nidre/Maariv with DC Minyan
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidrei with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Am Kolel
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Ohev Sholom
  • “Kol Nidre 6:45pm, followed by a d’var Torah from Rabbi Wolkenfeld and Maariv. Candle lighting and the start of the fast at 6:50pm.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Yom Kippur Kol Nidrei with Chabad East DC
• 6:50 p.m. — Festival Evening Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:50 p.m. — Kol Nidrei with Rosh Pina
• 6:50 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 7:00 p.m. — Free Kol Nidre Services with the Maryland School for Jewish Education
  • “Our community High Holiday services are open to everyone, whether you’re deeply connected to Jewish tradition, reconnecting, part of an interfaith family, new to the area, or simply looking for a meaningful place to observe the day.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with the Interfaith Families Project
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 7:15 p.m. — Outdoor Soulful Kol Nidre with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Erev Yom Kippur with Reston Shoreshim
  • “It is Reston Shoreshim’s honor and tradition to invite the wider Jewish community to join with us during our High Holidays observances at no cost, and without the need for tickets.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Beth Chai
• 7:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Bet Mishpachah
• 7:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Hill Havurah
  • “Move into the Day of Atonement with Rabbi Hannah, Student Rabbi Lev, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Evening Alternative Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Join Rabbi Alexandra Stein and soloist Beth Mirahver (with piano and cello as well) as we enter Yom Kippur with song, community, and reflection (and a really great view!).”
• 8:00 p.m. — Kol Nidrei with 2239
• 8:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available

Monday, September 21st

• 8:30 a.m. — Shacharit with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 8:30 a.m. — Shacharit with Ohev Sholom
• 8:30 a.m. — Spirit of Yom Kippur Service with Yizkor with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Festival Morning Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 9:00 a.m. — Morning Services with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 9:00 a.m. — Shacharit with Rosh Pina
• 9:00 a.m. — Shacharit/Musafwith DC Minyan
• 9:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Services with Chabad East DC
• 9:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Services with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us as we gather in Unwavering Joy for a High Holy Day season of reflection, renewal, celebration, and community.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom as well. We are proud to continue our tradition of opening our services to everyone with no tickets or reservations required.”
• 9:15 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Services with Segulah Minyan
• 9:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Service with Am Kolel
• 9:30 a.m. — Full Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Main Morning Service with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Observe the Day of Atonement with Rabbi Hannah, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Free Yom Kippur Services with the Maryland School for Jewish Education
  • “Our community High Holiday services are open to everyone, whether you’re deeply connected to Jewish tradition, reconnecting, part of an interfaith family, new to the area, or simply looking for a meaningful place to observe the day.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Kol Haneshama Service with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 10:00 a.m. — Park Service with Congregation Beth El
• 10:00 a.m. — Reform Services with GW Hillel
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning with Interfaith Families Project
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Service with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 10:00 a.m. — Morning Service in the Sanctuary with Temple Sinai
  • “Rabbi Goldstein and Cantor Rhodes will lead our reflective and meaningful morning service. As we reach the pinnacle of this season of teshuva, we open ourselves to the powerful messages of Isaiah and Deuteronomy alongside the traditional prayers of confession, repentance, and renewal.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Family Service with Chabad East DC
  • “Join us for our Yom Kippur Family Service, a meaningful and engaging experience for the whole family.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning and Yizkor with Bet Mishpachah
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Services with Reston Shoreshim
  • “It is Reston Shoreshim’s honor and tradition to invite the wider Jewish community to join with us during our High Holidays observances at no cost, and without the need for tickets.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Services and Yizkor with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Come together with our 20s and 30s community to find strength and joy during the High Holy Days at Washington Hebrew Congregation.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Sanctuary Service with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
• 10:30 a.m. — Yizkor with Ohev Sholom
• 11:00 a.m. — Alternative Service for Families and Community with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Join Rabbi Sarah Tasman, soloist Beth Mirahver, with band accompaniment, for an alternative daytime service. Like all our services, this one will provide many opportunities to connect to the themes of the holy days, and to each other, and like all our alternative services, it will be more intimate and informal in style.”
• 11:00 a.m. — Traditional Yom Kippur Service with Yizkor with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 11:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur with Beth Chai
• 11:15 a.m. — Torah & Text Study with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 11:30 a.m. — Yizkor with Congregation Etz Hayim
• 12:00 p.m. — Yizkor with Am Kolel
  • “Our loved ones will be remembered on a special slide during the Yizkor service.”
• 12:00 p.m. — Lunchtime Community Meetup for Those Who Cannot Fast with GatherDC
  • “Together, we’ll share space and conversation as we explore what it means to honor and care for our bodies and selves on this sacred day.”
• 12:30 p.m. — Yizkor with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 1:30 p.m. — Afternoon Program: The Conversation Project – Live Meaningfully and Approach the End of Life Intentionally with Temple Sinai
  • “Please join us for this panel discussion and practical workshop led by our clergy and experts in end-of-life care.”
• 1:30 p.m. — Condensed Service with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This year, come breathe, gather, and receive the spiritual wisdom to hold what feels beyond belief. You may discover that belief itself is what helps us move beyond what feels impossible.”
• 1:30 p.m. — Yom Kippur Afternoon Services with Temple Micah
• 2:15 p.m. — Nigun Circle and Meditation with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “In the stillness of the afternoon, between the intensity of the prayers, gather with Hazzan Asa Fradkin, Rabbi Rami Schwartzer, and shaliach Yoel Gleizer to enter the quiet power of melody. Through the ancient practice of nigun—wordless, winding song—we open the heart, settle the spirit, and draw close to something deeper. No experience needed; off-key voices most welcome.”
• 2:30 p.m. — Book of Jonah with Kol Ami
• 3:30 p.m. — High Holiday Seminar with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “The seminar will feature a discussion with congregant Michelle Brafman about her newest book, Draw Near to Me. Draw Near to Me, the sequel to Michelle’s book Swimming with Ghosts, is a timely story about the emotional and spiritual work it takes to repair an impossible rupture in a marriage, a family, and the larger communities in which we live, hope, and love.”
• 3:30 p.m. — Support After Loss with Congregation Beth El
  • “With a special invitation to those who have experienced a recent loss, please join us at 3:30 pm on Yom Kippur for a brief teaching and discussion, led by Rabbi Megdal, on themes of remembrance, grief, and healing. All are welcome.”
• 4:30 p.m. — Mincha with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 4:40 p.m. — Yom Kippur Afternoon Services with Segulah Minyan
• 4:45 p.m. — Afternoon Learning with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 5:00 p.m. — Mincha & N’eilah, Shofar with Am Kolel
• 5:00 p.m. — Mincha and Ne’ila with Bet Mishpachah
• 5:00 p.m. — Mincha/Ne’ilah with DC Minyan
• 5:15 p.m. — Mincha – Afternoon Services with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 5:15 p.m. — Mincha/Neilah with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 5:15 p.m. — Mincha with Ohev Sholom
• 5:20 p.m. — Mincha with Rosh Pina
• 5:30 p.m. — Yizkor and Ne’ilah with Hill Havurah
  • Followed by a community break-fast
  • “Join Rabbi Hannah, Student Rabbi Lev, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble to lift up the memories of our loved ones with Yizkor at 5:30 pm, followed by Ne’ilah, our final service of Yom Kippur, at 6:00 pm.”
• 5:45 p.m. — Afternoon Services with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 5:45 p.m. — N’ilah Service with Temple Sinai
  • “The concluding N’ilah service of Yom Kippur marks the final moments of the day with urgent prayers, open-hearted reflection, and the symbolic closing of the gates of heaven.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Community Break Fast with Washington Hebrew Congregation and 2239
• 6:00 p.m. — Neilah/Ma’ariv with Congregation Beth El
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:00 p.m. — Story of Jonah: Haftarah Reading with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Yizkor with Chabad East DC
• 6:15 p.m. — Neilah with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:20 p.m. — Ne’ilah Service and Havdallah with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Neilah – Closing Service with Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington
  • Services will be held outdoors and will be followed by a break-the-fast
  • “All are welcome, no charge. Registration required.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Neilah with Ohev Sholom
• 6:30 p.m. — Neilah with Rosh Pina
• 6:30 p.m. — Neilah followed by Break Fast with Chabad East DC
• 6:45 p.m. — Neilah Service with Congregation Adat Reyim
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Don’t have a place to go for the High Holidays? 🍎🍯🌾 We’d love to invite you to Congregation Adat Reyim.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Ne’ilah with Congregation Etz Hayim
  • Register by September 1st
• 7:00 p.m. — Break the Fast with Bet Mishpachah
  • “Join the Bet Mishpachah community as we break bread together after a day of prayer”
• 7:00 p.m. — Havdalah and Break Fast with Sixth & I
  • “Wind down the High Holidays and transition to a new week and year with some singing, hear the shofar blast, and have your fill of bagels (the one day of the year we’ll let you eat in the sanctuary!). We’ll set the vibe with glow sticks to welcome in a brighter 5787.”
• 7:15 p.m. — Yom Kippur All-Congregation Break Fast with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • Register by September 15th
  • “Gather together in sacred community as the last notes of the shofar drift away! Join with other temple members for a Break Fast meal following our N’ilah service. We’ll enjoy bagels, schmear and other delectables.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Break the Fast with GatherDC
  • “We’ll gather over bagels, schmear, drinks, and good company to mark the end of the holiday together.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Break Fast with Kol Ami
• 7:45 p.m. — Break Fast with Am Kolel
• 7:45 p.m. — Break Fast with New Synagogue Project
  • Register by August 21st
  • “Together we renew our commitment to caring for ourselves, one another, and our neighbors, and to the work of making our world a fitting dwelling place for the Divine. Join us to hold this sacred space together as we enter into the High Holidays and a new year.”
• 7:46 p.m. — Final Shofar Blowing and Havdalah with Congregation Etz Hayim
• 7:47 p.m. — Maariv / Havdalah and Break Fast with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 7:50 p.m. — Final Shofar Blast, Maariv, Havdalah, Kiddush Levana, and Communal Break-Fast with Ohev Sholom
• 8:00 p.m. — Break Fast with GW Hillel

Wednesday, September 23rd

• 4:00 p.m. — Community-Wide Sukkah Building with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “We have so many wonderful community events planned to take place in our Adas Israel Sukkah! Now we need a community to help build and decorate the Sukkah to make it all happen…No need to bring anything but yourself (though if you have a ladder and/or tools you can bring, we encourage you to do so)!”

Friday, September 25th

• 9:00 a.m. — 5 Day “Sukkot in the Mountains” YJP Retreat Begins with Hamsa Nomads
  • “Spend five days celebrating Sukkot in the Vermont mountains during peak fall season.”
• 5:30 p.m. — Pizza in the Hut with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Decorating our community Sukkah and shaking the lulav can work up an appetite! So, plan on grabbing some pizza at 5:30 PM.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Happy Hour and Sukkot Shabbat with Rabbi Jenna with Sixth & I
  • “During Sukkot, Rabbi Jenna and the Sixth & I musicians lead an inclusive service that blends contemporary and traditional elements, reflecting on the holiday’s themes of home and belonging.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Mincha / Kabbalat Chag Service with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:00 p.m. — Sukkot Shabbat with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Celebrate the joy of Sukkot—and the people who make Washington Hebrew Congregation the vibrant, welcoming community it is. Join us for a special Shabbat evening as we honor our members, welcome those who have recently joined our congregation, and celebrate the many ways we connect, serve, learn, and grow together.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Shabbat Sukkot Festival Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Welcome Sukkot with an uplifting Erev Sukkot service led by our clergy, followed by an oneg in the Mishkan sukkah.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Sukkot – Kabbalat Chag Service & Potluck in the Sukkah with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “Join us for an Erev Sukkot Kabbalat Chag service and potluck dinner”
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Sukkot Service with Temple Sinai
  • Virtual attendance available
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Sukkot / Welcoming Shabbat with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us for Oneg at 6 p.m., then light candles with us, join in Kiddush, and enjoy challah as we welcome Shabbat together in-person at Temple Micah or online.”

Saturday, September 26th

• 9:30 a.m. — 1st Day Sukkot Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “This multi-access Shabbat service will include special liturgy and Torah readings for the Sukkot holiday.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Community Sukkot Festival Morning Service & Kiddush Luncheon with Temple Sinai, Temple Emanuel, and Temple Shalom
• 10:15 a.m. — Sukkot / Shabbat Morning Service with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to come together on Shabbat morning with a worship service that combines traditional liturgy with poetry, music, Torah reading, and space for private contemplation. All are welcome to gather for Kiddush after the service.”
• 5:00 p.m. — LGBTQ+ Sukkot Havdalah Picnic with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “…come for a delicious meal, community, friends, shaking of the lulav and etrog, and Havdalah!”
• 6:00 p.m. — Mincha / Kabbalat Chag Service with Adas Israel Congregation
• 6:30 p.m. — S’mores in the Sukkah with Rodef 2100
  • “It’s that time of year again! Join us in the TRS Sukkah for dinner, s’mores, havdalah, and more!”
• 6:30 p.m. — Sukkot Under the Stars with Abrahamic House
  • “Please join Abrahamic House for a warm evening celebrating Sukkot under the stars with a meaningful Havdalah service (a Jewish ceremony to mark the end of Shabbat), potluck dinner, and an evening of socializing with the community.”
• 7:30 p.m. — A Soulful Evening of Healing & Hope in the Sukkah with Guy and Gal Gilboa-Dalal with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “We will spend the evening with Guy & Gal Gilboa-Dalal, immersed in their “Soundtrack to Survival” is a story of survival, brotherhood, and music.”

Sunday, September 27th

• 10:00 a.m. — Reverse Tashlich: Park Cleanup with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “Join Moishe House Columbia Heights for a Sunday of good food and giving back! We’ll kick things off with volunteer at Rock Creek Conservancy at 10am to help protect and restore one of DC’s favorite green spaces alongside fellow community members befoe having lunch at Cracked Eggery.”
• 11:00 a.m. — Sukkot Party in Eastern Market Park with Chabad East DC
  • “Celebrate Sukkot and fulfill the special Shaking the Lulav and Etrog!”
• 1:00 p.m. — Crafternoon: Decorating the Sukkah with Hill Havurah
  • “Help us make our sukkah beautiful with an afternoon craft workshop! We’ll make paper fruits, garlands and chains, and do some hands-on holiday learning with our Judaica Education Collection. Leave your craft with us for the Museum’s sukkah or take it home for your own holiday.”
• 4:00 p.m. — Dwelling in the Sukkah with GatherDC
  • “If you don’t have a sukkah of your own, or simply want to experience this tradition alongside others, we invite you to join GatherDC in Rabbi Amalia’s sukkah for an evening of ritual and meaning.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Jews of Color Affinity Group Sukkot Celebration with the EDCJCC
  • “Come celebrate and build community with other Jews of Color and their families this Sukkot! We’ll enjoy dinner in the sukkah, learning with Ammud, crafts, and more.”

Tuesday, September 29th

• 5:30 p.m. — Pizza in the Hut with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • “Join us for pizza and soda in the Rose Park Sukkah!”
• 7:00 p.m. — Hosting Hope: The Ushpizin Project with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “…learn about seven Ushpizin from contemporary Israeli society who all inspire a sense of hope and possibility through the example of their lives.”

Wednesday, September 30th

• 6:30 p.m. — Potluck Dinner in the Sukkah with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “Join us for a potluck dinner in the Fabrangen Sukkah”
• 7:00 p.m. — Interest Clusters & Friends Sukkot Mixer with EDCJCC
  • Online registration closes 3:00 p.m. on September 30th
  • “Celebrate this harvest holiday with citron-themed drinks in the sukkah, snacks (Kosher options available), crafts, shaking the lulav, and learning more about our Interest Clusters and the amazing coordinators who run them.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Sukkot + Succulents: Paint, Plant, and Connect with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Celebrate Sukkot with Reva (formerly YP @ Adas Israel)! Join us for a cozy evening in the sukkah with a light dinner, creative succulent pot painting, and meaningful conversation about what we’re building, growing, and making room for in our own lives. We’ll also have the opportunity to shake the lulav and etrog, and take our new succulents home.”

Thursday, October 1st

• 11:00 a.m. — FOODISH Story Circle with Capital Jewish Museum
  • “Join CJM and FOODISH in the sukkah to share family recipes, culinary memories, and personal stories connected to Jewish holidays and traditions.”
• 5:30 p.m. — Party in the Sukkah with Capital Jewish Museum
  • “Celebrate the high holidays with an afterhours party in CJM’s sukkah. Featuring etrog fizzes for sale, DIY vision boarding for the new year, a service project assembling fall care packages for individuals experiencing homelessness, and spotlight talks around the Museum.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Farewell to the Sukkah with GatherDC
  • “As the High Holidays come to a close, we invite you to join GatherDC for one final gathering under the sukkah’s thatched roof. Rooted in the Jewish tradition of bidding farewell to the sukkah, this is an opportunity to slow down, savor this moment, and reflect on what this new Jewish year might bring.”
• 7:00 p.m. — GLOE Under the Sukkah with GLOE
  • “Join GLOE and NJB+ under the sukkah for an evening of connection and community.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Harvest Your Brain Power: Sukkot Trivia Night with Sixth & I
  • “During Sukkot, brush up on your autumnal knowledge for a night of trivia, cider, and all things fall. Whether you come with friends or on your own, we’ll create teams who will compete to be crowned Sukkot trivia champions.”

Friday, October 2nd

• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Simchat Torah / Welcoming Shabbat with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us for Oneg at 6 p.m., then light candles with us, join in Kiddush, and enjoy challah as we welcome Shabbat together in-person at Temple Micah or online.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Sh’mini Atzeret/Erev Simchat Torah Celebration with Temple Sinai
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Come prepared to dance with us at a festive service celebrating the end and the beginning of our Torah reading cycle.”

Saturday, October 3rd

• 9:30 a.m. — Shemini Atzeret Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “These multi-access Shabbat services will include special liturgy and Torah readings for the holiday, as well as Yizkor.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Community Simchat Torah Festival Morning Service & Kiddush Luncheon with Temple Sinai, Temple Emanuel, and Temple Shalom
  • Virtual attendance available
• 10:15 a.m. — Simchat Torah Service with Yizkor/Shabbat Morning with Temple Micah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to come together on Shabbat morning with a worship service that combines traditional liturgy with poetry, music, Torah reading, and space for private contemplation. All are welcome to gather for Kiddush after the service.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Dancin’ in the Streets: A Simchat Torah Celebration with Sixth & I
  • “Let loose and dance like no one’s watching as you enjoy live music, themed cocktails and mocktails, and lively dancing on I Street.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Simchat Torah Celebration with Adas Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Featuring The Mayer Brothers, and our local DC klezmer players, to lead us in song & dance”

Sunday, October 4th

• 10:00 a.m. — Kids Simchat Torah Celebration with Chabad East DC
  • “Children will gather to sing and dance with the Torah, joyfully celebrating our heritage.”
• 1:15 p.m. — Simchat Torah BBQ Lunch with Ohev Sholom Congregation
• 4:30 p.m. — Simchat Torah with Hill Havurah
  • “Take Torah to the streets! Parade to the Capitol alongside the Machaya Klezmer Band!”

District of Columbia

• Baked by Yael
• Bethesda Bagels
  • $60 minimum for Yom Kippur orders
• Bread Furst
  • Available for pickup orders September 10-12th and September 21st
• Call Your Mother Deli
  • Rosh Hashanah catering available September 11th to 13th
  • Yom Kippur catering available September 20th and 21st
• Challah Back Girls
• Silver and Sons Barbecue
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available for pickup September 10th and 11th
• Tatte
  • Order by 8:00 p.m. on September 8th for pickup between September 10th and September 13th

Maryland

• Bethesda Bagels
  • $60 minimum for Yom Kippur orders
• Call Your Mother Deli
  • Rosh Hashanah catering available September 11th to 13th
  • Yom Kippur catering available September 20th and 21st
• Mon Ami Gabi
  • Specialty menu for dine-in or carryout on September 11th and 12th
• Signature Caterers
  • Delivers in Maryland, DC, and Virginia
• Silver and Sons Barbecue
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available for pickup September 10th and 11th
• Sunflower Bakery
  • Ordering opens August 14th
  • Order by 12:00 p.m. on September 4th
• Tatte
  • Order by 8:00 p.m. on September 8th for pickup between September 10th and September 13th

Virginia

• Bethesda Bagels
  • $60 minimum for Yom Kippur orders
• Call Your Mother Deli
  • Rosh Hashanah catering available September 11th to 13th
  • Yom Kippur catering available September 20th and 21st
• Tatte
  • Order by 8:00 p.m. on September 8th for pickup between September 10th and September 13th

Guides and How-Tos

• A First-Timer’s Guide to Hosting Rosh Hashanah Dinner by Sonya Sanford at Hey Alma
• Celebrating the High Holy Days From Home from Exploring Judaism
• High Holiday Grief and Yizkor from Recustom
• High Holiday Rituals and Guidebooks from Recustom
• High Holidays Resource Guide from Reboot
• High Holidays Rituals from Ritualwell
• High Holidays 5787: Surviving. Persisting. Still Here from Keshet
• High Holy Day Blessings + Ritual Guide from the Den Collective
• High Holy Days Resource List from Jews of Color Initiative
• How To Lead A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Seder from My Jewish Learning
• Non-Ritual Ways to Prepare in Elul from Exploring Judaism
• Prayers and Rituals for those Who Need to Eat on Yom Kippur from A Mitzvah to Eat
• Rosh HaShanah Haggadah from Schusterman Family Philanthropies
• Simchat Torah Guide from Jewtina
• Sukkot Guide from Jewtina
• Sukkot Resources from HIAS
• The Rosh Hashanah Seder: Latinx Edition from Jewtina
• Yom Kippur Workbook from Jewtina

Essays and Articles

• Must-Know Rosh Hashanah Words and Phrases from My Jewish Learning
• On the Vine: Teshuvah and Time in 5786 from Rabbi Amalia Mark
• Requesting Time Off for the High Holidays Helped Me Define My Jewishness by Abi Winer at Hey Alma
• Sorry, Not Sorry: The Real Path to an Apology by Hanna Perlberger from At the Well
• The Joys of a Mizrahi Rosh Hashanah Seder by Donna Maher at Hey Alma
• The Mystical Resonance of the Shofar by Nili Salem from At the Well
• The Power of Words: A Talmudic Exploration for Elul from Project Zug
• The 18 Best Jewish High Holiday Movies and TV Episodes by Evelyn Frick at Hey Alma

Other Resources

• b’kol libeinu: the call of our hearts: a Rosh Hashanah / Yom Kippur Machzor Companion from SVIVAH
• Days of Awe Journal from Hey Alma
• Elul Challenge: Torah Study for Your Soul from Project Zug
• Hebrew Calendar 5787 from At the Well
• High Holidays Community Cookbook from The Nosher
• High Holy Days Sermons from Temple Rodef Shalom
• Mini Reset for Rosh Hashanah from At the Well
• The Art of Dwelling: Creative Prompts for Sukkot by Jewish Studio Project
• 10Q
  • “10Q emails you a question a day for 10 days. Afterwards, you send your answers to the secure online vault. One year later, your answers are unlocked and returned and the process begins anew.”