Budapest’s Zsilip Center, a two-story community hub with a full playhouse and multiple classrooms, rolls out a warm, playful slate of winter programs for families eager to connect with Jewish tradition. Set at Újpesti rakpart 1 in District 13, Zsiliputi combines hands-on learning with lively games, songs, and stories—making Friday evenings and Sunday mornings feel like a weekly mini-festival for kids and parents alike.
Friday Night: Péntekecske, Kid-Style Kabbalat Shabbat
Every Friday listed—from January 16 through January 30—Zsilip hosts Péntekecske, a kid-friendly Shabbat welcome inside the Zsiliputi playhouse. While adults head to the synagogue to hear Rabbi Glitzi’s teaching, children settle in with a madricha for a playful deep dive into the weekly Torah portion, Shabbat, and the upcoming holiday cycle. Think visuals, clever activities, and simple rituals sized just right for small hands and big imaginations. Attentive listeners leave with gifts, and yes, there’s even a raffle. The invitation is clear: bring the whole family and let everyone learn on Shabbat.
Sunday Returns: Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School
On January 18, January 25, and February 1, the Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School reopens its doors with fresh energy and a new name, but the same much-loved spirit. For years, hundreds of children spent Sunday mornings here and still swap stories about the games, friendships, and playful learning they shared. Now, the Sunday school is back in the Zsilip Center’s revamped, two-level space, designed to hold both free play and focused group work.
Who It’s For and What They’ll Do
From 10:00 to 12:30, a young, enthusiastic team welcomes children and teens ages 4 to 14. Activities are split by age group, so every participant gets a program tailored to their stage—from little ones just starting to explore traditions to pre–Bar/Bat Mitzvah students and those already eyeing leadership as young counselors. Together, they prep for holidays, learn about mitzvot, get to know the customs, and internalize the values that carry through life. The pitch is inclusive and upbeat: whether you’re tiny or a teen, the Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School is designed for you.
Place, Dates, and Vibe
All events run at the Zsilip Center, Újpesti rakpart 1, Budapest 1137. Dates include:
– Friday evenings: January 16, January 23, January 30 (Péntekecske).
– Sunday mornings: January 18, January 25, February 1 (Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School, 10:00–12:30).
The tone is joyful and community-forward, blending tradition with play, and education with excitement. Visuals and hands-on activities keep kids engaged, while the synagogue’s adult learning runs in parallel—so parents don’t have to choose between their own Shabbat enrichment and their children’s program.
Come for the Fun, Stay for the Tradition
Expect songs, stories, images, age-appropriate lessons, prizes for good attention, and a raffle to cap the energy. The organizers nudge families to make it a standing date: show up together, soak up the rhythm of Shabbat, and let Jewish learning weave naturally into weekend life. More dates are being added, with a total of 14 listed across the season—so there’s plenty of room to jump in and make it a habit.
