Celebrate Israel: Boston

Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) and the Israeli American Council (IAC) are bringing the Greater Boston Jewish and Israeli communities together by the thousands on May 31 for Celebrate Israel: Boston. This festival of Israeli music, art, dance, fun, food and community will take place at Gann Academy in Waltham and will feature two stages of internationally known musical talent, children’s performers, interactive art projects and activities for everyone.

The newest additions to the festival line-up include:

• Julian Edelman, New England Patriots Wide Receiver and Super Bowl champion, is scheduled to appear on the main stage to greet the crowd at 1:30 p.m.
• Tamir Goodman, American-born Israeli basketball player, Sports Illustrated’s “Jewish Jordan”, will run a drills and skills workshop for kids and teens
• Authentic Food from Boston’s best kosher restaurants, food trucks and caterers
• A wine and beer café featuring a variety of Israeli and kosher beverages
• Human foosball and other giant-sized games

The entertainment line-up includes acclaimed performers Josh Nelson, Time Magazine’s “Star of New Jewish Music”; Jewish recording artist and rising Broadway star, Neshama Carlebach in concert with her gospel choir; and Ethnix, one of the most celebrated Israeli pop rock bands of all time. Kids will enjoy Dod Haim, Israel’s premier children’s entertainer, and local favorite Vanessa Trien and The Jumping Monkeys.

Interactive games and activities range from Gaga ball, Israeli folk dancing, an Israeli hand drumming circle, bungee trampoline and Masada Rock climbing wall to a Noah’s Ark petting zoo, camel rides, and Torah scroll and Havdallah workshops. Attendees can participate in “Hands Across Israel,” an interactive fabric mural, or write their wish for delivery to Jerusalem at the virtual Kotel.

A photo ID is required for admission. Kosher food will be available for purchase. Additionally, food may be brought into the event, but for security reasons, no beverages or hard-sided coolers are permitted. To register for the event visit: celebrateisraelboston.com.

When: Sunday, May 31, 2015

Noon – 6 p.m.

Rain or Shine

Where: Gann Academy

333 Forest Street

Waltham, MA 02452

Cost: $5 pre-registration

$10 at door

Group and family discounts available in advance

Kids 3 and under attend free