The Winter Holidays invite us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and embrace the beauty of shared traditions. It is an ideal opportunity to honor the richness of our heritage while weaving new experiences into the fabric of family life. We hope this list of suggestions inspires you to connect, reflect, and embrace the joy of the season with an open heart.
Give Back to the Community
This season of giving is an ideal time to focus on acts of kindness that embody Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world. Volunteering at a local shelter or food bank is a meaningful way to share blessings with those in need. Families can also organize their own mitzvah projects, such as assembling care packages or writing heartfelt cards for seniors and community members, bringing light to others’ lives during the holidays. If you’re unsure how to help, this list of options is a great place to start:
- Temple Israel of Hollywood Christmas Dinner Service
This annual dinner feeds over 1,000 unhoused neighbors and provides them with toys, books, and hygiene kits. Hosted in conjunction with Hollywood United Methodist Church, this is a great way to take part in interfaith outreach that makes a real difference. - Fundraising For Those in Need
While organizations in Los Angeles can help you find volunteer opportunities, you can also support humanitarian organizations around the globe. The JDC matches donations or help you host fundraisers for a wide variety of global causes. - Jewish Family Service LA
Jewish Family Service LA has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. From toy drives to providing company for the elderly, view the list opportunities and call today.
Embrace the Holidays (with a Twist!)
Create New Traditions: Interfaith families can celebrate the season by blending traditions to create celebrations that borrow from different holidays.
Practice Interfaith Outreach:
Practice interfaith outreach by by inviting others to join your own traditions, or join a friend of another faith to learn how they celebrate. This is a great way to deepen your connection to your community and give your family new experiences.
Enjoy the Arts and Entertainment
The holiday break is a perfect time to experience the richness of the arts. Many museums remain open, offering a chance to explore fascinating exhibits or engage in special holiday programming.
- Visit Museums: While LA Art Museums host special exhibits year-round, the winter holidays are the perfect time to to go see them. We highly recommend visiting the Skirball Cultural Center’s exhibit: Diane von Furstenberg Woman Before Art. Famed for her signature Wrap Dress, the exhibit explores how von Furstenberg became a household name beyond the fashion world, paving the way for women to become business leaders, philanthropists, and symbols of female liberation.
You can read more about the experience in this month’s blog post about the exhibit. [ link] - Stick with the Classics: Chinese food and a movie on Christmas remains a classic tradition around the holidays. Our pick: catch A Complete Unknown for a biopic about the life and times of a Jewish American icon – Bob Dylan.
- Pershing Square Ice Rink: Embrace the cold by skating under the blue skies in Pershing Square. This outdoor ice rink offers fun for all ages and taste of real winter in Southern California.
- Embrace Your Creativity: Dive into family photo albums and create your own book family stories – picture included. Group projects are a great way to relive fond memories and collaborate draw each other closer.
Make the Most of This Season Together
The Winter Holiday break offers an invaluable chance to pause, reflect, and cherish time with loved ones. Whether celebrating cherished traditions, giving back to the community, or simply enjoying time together, these activities provide meaningful ways to connect with Jewish heritage and embrace the spirit of the season. This year, let family outings and shared experiences create moments that will be remembered long after the holidays have passed.
