After rescheduling the 10th annual Jewish Cultural Festival to Aug. 9, 2020, organizers at Temple Israel in Dayton decided to cancel this year’s festival to protect the health of all festival-goers. The 10th anniversary celebration of Jewish art, food and ritual has been postponed to the summer of 2021. There is no specific date set for next year’s celebrations.
“The health and safety of our community is our top priority,” said Courtney Cummings, music and program director at Temple Israel, in a press release. “Although we cannot gather this summer, we are looking forward to coming together again next year to celebrate and share our Jewish culture and tradition with the entire Miami Valley.”
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Temple Israel, the largest Reform congregation in greater Dayton with a rich history dating back 150 years, puts on the festival that features traditional Jewish food and drink, live music and dance performances, children’s activities, artisan crafts and goods, artwork and interactive presentations by local and national speakers. Essentially, this festival offers a way for others to learn about Judaism who may not be exposed to Jewish traditions and faith through other avenues.
Despite the cancellation, there is still a bit of good news regarding the festival. The accompanying Oy Vey 5K Run/Walk, which traditionally kicks off the Jewish Cultural Festival, will now be held in a virtual format. Participants will be able to register online and create their own 5K routes. All of the proceeds from the race will benefit Temple Israel’s Social Action Fund, which supports programs and activities that are designed to positively impact the community.
Until further updates, these are the fees to participate in the 5K:
- $25 pre-registration through July 10 (shirt included)
- $30 registration July 10-Aug. 7 (shirt not guaranteed)
- $35 race day registration (shirt not guaranteed)
To register for the race, and for more information about the race or Temple Israel, pay a visit to their website and Facebook page.
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