After the more serious and somber part of the program finished, we cranked up the Israeli music, and the hustling shuk–an Israeli market place–opened for the kids’ enjoyment. They were able to shop at a simulated shuk stall, purchasing items ranging from toys to school supplies. The kids also had yummy foods, such as baked goods and falafels, that they could purchase with the “shekels” they had earned throughout the year. The confirmation class, along with Rabbi Benni, put together a beverage booth with delicious grape ice cream sodas and limonada, Israeli lemonade! (The children earned shekalim by participating in class activities. The fact that it was hard-earned “cash” made it even more enjoyable to spend, as the kids were very proud of all that they had in their “wallets”!)

Another part of the marketplace was a pretend Western Wall, or Kotel Ma’aravi,” made of giant blocks. The kids were told about the significance of the Kotel in Jerusalem, and they each wrote prayers or messages and placed them, as is done with the actual wall, between the gaps of the blocks. Our celebration culminated with Israeli folk dancing led by Cantor Marcelo.

Thanks to the fabulous teachers and staff, the volunteer parents, and Cantor Marcelo, this was an unbelievably memorable event that brought the kids as close as they could to a true Israeli experience!