Budapest’s Zsilip Center is opening the doors of its two-level Zsiliputi Playhouse for a January packed with playful learning about Jewish traditions. Located at 1137 – Újpesti rakpart 1, this family-friendly hub mixes games, stories, songs, and hands-on activities with a welcoming community vibe and plenty of study rooms to explore. Kids dive into weekly themes and holidays, while parents can join adult learning in the synagogue next door—then regroup for a warm, shared Shabbat spirit. Events run throughout the month, with Friday evening mini-Shabbat welcomes and a revived Sunday school that keeps children buzzing long after the morning ends.
Friday Mini-Shabbat for Kids and Parents
January 9, 16, and 23 bring Péntekecske (Little Friday) Friday night—Zsilip’s cozy, kid-focused Shabbat welcome at the Zsiliputi Playhouse. While adults listen to Rabbi Glitzi’s teaching in the synagogue, a madricha leads youngsters in lively, age-appropriate activities about the weekly Torah portion, Shabbat, and current holidays, using pictures, stories, and plenty of games. Attentive listeners can snag small gifts, and there’s even a raffle to keep the excitement high. The invitation is simple: bring the whole family and let everyone learn on Shabbat. The program is crafted to make Shabbat feel accessible, joyful, and memorable for all ages, especially the littlest participants who love interactive learning and rewards.
Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School Returns
Sundays fire back up on January 11, 18, and 25 with the Zsiliputi Zsidó Vasárnapi Iskola (Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School), a refreshed take on a beloved weekend staple that once drew hundreds of children to spend their Sunday mornings at the Zsilip Center. The format remains a hit: from 10:00 to 12:30, a young, enthusiastic team welcomes every child and teen aged 4–14 into group sessions tailored by age. Together they prep for upcoming holidays, learn about mitzvot, get to know Jewish traditions, and absorb values that stick with them for life. Whether you’re little or a teen, gearing up to be a youth leader or approaching your bar/bat mitzvah, this school is designed for you. Expect shared games, playful learning, and friendships that turn a Sunday into a story kids keep retelling for years.
Where and When to Join
All programs take place at the Zsilip Center, 1137 – Újpesti rakpart 1, in Budapest. Péntekecske (Little Friday) evenings feature the mini-Shabbat welcome for children alongside adult learning with Rabbi Glitzi. Sunday School sessions run 10:00–12:30 on January 11, 18, and 25. The Zsiliputi Playhouse’s two floors and multiple study rooms mean space for toddlers, big kids, and teens to learn their way—through crafts, songs, picture-led lessons, and lots of play.
Bring the Whole Crew
The Zsiliputi Playhouse makes Jewish learning feel like a game night with a purpose. Parents get time to learn; kids get a madricha-led program that’s fun, visual, and interactive. Prizes and a raffle keep motivation high; a shared Shabbat spirit keeps community ties strong. Expect more dates rolling out—there are 14 events listed in total—so families can build a rhythm that carries through the season. Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs, so keep an eye out for updates and come ready for a warm, lively, and inclusive start to the year in Budapest.
