Being Jewish means a lot of things: caring for the planet, overcoming adversity, and standing up for what’s right and fair in the world. And, maybe, also an affinity for a great deli. But being Jewish has also always been about being a part of a community and taking pride in the cultural and religious heritage. While you will always be a part of the Jewish community wherever you go, it’s a lovely thing to have a place to gather, reflect, worship, and celebrate right in your hometown. Luckily, there are several Chabads in Seattle where individuals and families can do just that.
Chabad is a Hasidic movement and a branch of Orthodox Judaism that’s actually an acronym for the Hebrew words “Chochmah, Binah, Da’at,” which refer to wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. Chabads are known for their emphasis on education, outreach, and Hasidic philosophy, with something for Jews of all ages to learn and explore. Chabad Houses, like the ones you can find here in Seattle, are community centers that promote Jewish education and values, Mitzvah campaigns, and worship. And don’t let its Hasidic roots dissuade you from engaging with Chabad if you consider yourself Reform or Conservative; most Chabads welcome Jews of all observances to come practice, learn, and reflect together!
Find The Perfect Chabads In Seattle For Your Family
There are several Chabads in the greater Seattle area that you can explore! Whether you’re looking for one close to home or perhaps one with a specific event or offer, there is bound to be a Chabad in the area that will accommodate your spiritual, social, and personal needs. Here is a closer look at some of the Chabads in Seattle for you to explore!
Eastside Torah Center
16199 Northup Way, Bellevue, Washington, 98008
The Eastside Torah Center in Bellevue is your go-to source for everything and anything Jewish on the Eastside. Their diverse community is home to Jews of all religious and cultural backgrounds, creating rich and dynamic opportunities for learning and collaborating. You can gather to worship in their Schul Services at Congregation Beis Menachem, a Chabad-style synagogue, or take advantage of Seattle social events like the Women’s Soup-er Hour or Challah Friends. Eastside Torah Center also has resources for B’nei Mitzvah, as well as a fantastic Hebrew School where children can embrace their Jewish heritage and gain a true sense of Jewish pride.
Chabad Mercer Island Seattle
9010 SE 40th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040
Chabad Mercer Island is all about coming together to celebrate Judaism joyfully and with meaning in Seattle. They’ve created an incredible calendar of events for men, women, children, and families to enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, preparing for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, looking for a social outlet, or coming together for an exciting Jewish Story Hour with your little ones, there are so many ways to engage with Chabad Mercer Island. Regardless of your religious affiliation, there is a place for you at Chabad Mercer Island, an organization “motivated by profound love” and “spurred by boundless optimism.” Check out their website to get a feel for all of their unique and exciting opportunities to be a part of their community!
The Friendship Circle of Washington
2737 77th Avenue Southeast Suite 101 Mercer Island, WA 98040
The Friendship Circle of Washington is an amazing Seattle program (powered by Chabad.org) that empowers children and teens with special needs and typically developing teens. The organization helps to form friendships that make a true difference, engaging neurotypical teen volunteers and individuals with special needs in activities and gatherings that help build important life and leadership skills. Their inclusive environment welcomes families with children and teens with disabilities regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, faith, or income. Their programming includes Sunday Circles, where trained specialists and teen volunteers lead children through activities like art, Kung Fu, games, music, and more. There are also Teen & Young Adult hangouts, holiday programming, life skills activities, and many other opportunities to learn and grow alongside new friends.
Chabad of Kirkland
Kirkland, WA 98034 (no full address provided)
Chabad of Kirkland is “dedicated to providing every Jew, regardless of background, philosophy, or level of commitment, an open door environment for strengthening and enhancing Jewish life.” Their non-judgmental and accepting environment welcomes all Jewish individuals and families looking for a way to connect more deeply with their Jewish roots and beliefs. Join them in observing and celebrating holidays throughout the year. If you have younger children, the JKids Discovery Program is a great Hebrew School opportunity that will teach young Jewish generations about what it means to be Jewish, helping them take pride in the legacy of their heritage. There are always fun events happening for grown-ups, too, where you can learn about the Torah, gather with other Jewish adults, and become a part of a meaningful community.
Chabad Jewish Center of Renton
3929 NE 5th Pl, Renton, WA 98056
Chabad Jewish Center of Renton is a place without labels and affiliations where all Seattle Jews from every walk of life can gather. They strive to “develop a sense of community, to enhance the experience of being Jewish, and to learn and enjoy Judaism.” They’ve created a family-like organization that provides Jewish awareness, celebration, and education through state-of-the-art programming like their Jewish Women’s Circle and Shabbat community dinners. Their Mommy-and-Me program, Baby Loves Shabbat, gathers to bake new flavors of challah every week while exploring new instruments and bonding through music and movement. Additionally, the unique JUDA Hebrew School program teaches children about Jewish holidays, history, and basic Hebrew skills through the arts, like cooking, art, and drama. It’s a wonderful place to grow, learn, and explore!
Chabad of the Central Cascades
24121 SE Black Nugget Rd, Issaquah, WA 98029
Chabad of the Central Cascades, also known as Chabad Jewish Center of Issaquah Washington, offers an open-door environment for anyone looking to explore Jewish values in an accepting, personalized, and non-judgmental environment. They offer “Judaism with a smile” for everyone who walks through their doors. Programs like Soul Sisters studies female prophetesses from the Torah through creative expression. Meanwhile, their Smile on Seniors (SOS) program brings together volunteers and seniors in the greater community. They then create meaningful connections and relationships. Children will love their Gani Preschool of the Arts, Gan Izzy Daycamp, Yachdav Hebrew School, as well as plenty of other opportunities for learning, socializing, and celebrating being Jewish!
I Hope You Enjoy Finding Your New Community With One Of These Chabads In Seattle
These wonderful Chabads in Seattle make great places to connect with, celebrate, and grow your Judaism. Check out their websites to see everything they have to offer. Then, find the organization that is most convenient for you and your family. One thing is the same throughout every Chabad: you and your family are always welcome.
If you’re looking for another way to make this stage a little more enjoyable, I would love to connect. I’m a Mitzvah photographer, and I adore working with parents so they can remember this amazing celebration. If you’ve been considering booking a photographer for your child’s Mitzvah, then let’s chat so you can decide if my style is right for you. So, contact me today to get the conversation started!
