1312 B.C.E.-JEWISH FAMILIES TRAVEL THROUGH THE DESERT BY CAMELBACK, EATING MANNA IN THEIR HUTS.

OCT. 19, 2008 - JEWISH FAMILIES TRAVEL THROUGH THE TREES ON PONIES, EATING KOSHER PIZZA IN THE HUT IN MERRICK!

 Although there are no trees in the desert, on Sunday, Oct. 19th, participants at the Chabad of Merrick’s Sukkot celebration enjoyed a petting zoo & pony rides through the trees, since the holiday of Sukkot commemorates G‑d's protection of Jews in the desert after their exodus from Egypt.

 

Sukkot is a seven-day holiday, observed soon after Yom Kippur.  Observant Jews build a sukkah in their yards. Sukkah means "hut," the Torah-mandated outdoor shelter that is reminiscent of the "Clouds of Glory" which protected the Jews in the desert.

 

Sunday's festivities included fun activities for the entire family. The pony rides and petting zoo were a hit! Delicious pizza, fries and salad were enjoyed by the many participants, to the accompaniment of live joyous music. Other activities included holiday ‘mad libs’, flag decorating, bouncing on castle bouncers, a chance for children to make their own edible "sukkahs" and a raffle.

 

"Sukkot is a holiday of unity and joy, and children should experience the holiday in a joyful manner," said Rabbi Shimon Kramer of Chabad of Merrick. "That is why we had this party, to bring the community together to enjoy and celebrate the holiday."

 

For photos, click here.