Tu Bishvat, which has several affectionate nicknames including the new year of the trees and the birthday of the trees, literally translates to the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat.
This year, “Jewish Earth Day” or “Jewish Arbor Day” (more nicknames) begins at sundown on Feb. 1.
We’ve rounded up eco-focused events around the Bay Area, including kid-friendly celebrations, service projects, seders and adult-focused artist talks. Did we miss any? Let us know at [email protected].
San Francisco
Wednesday | January 28
Mitzvah Makers: Growing Kindness — Families with children ages 5-10 are invited to celebrate Tu Bishvat by decorating and potting plants that will be delivered to local seniors. At JFCS, 2150 Post St., S.F. 6-7:30 p.m. Free, registration required by Jan. 27.
Sunday | February 1
“Trees, Time, and Tu BiShvat” — Artist tour and talk with Tiffany Shlain and Ken Goldberg about “DendroJudaeology: A Timeline of the Jewish People” the artists’ reclaimed wood sculpture. At di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, 1150 25th St., S.F. 1-3 p.m. Free.
Tu Bishvat Seder — Congregation Beth Sholom presents a seder with prayer, reflection and a sampling of ritual foods plus a light meal. At 301 14th Ave., S.F. 6 p.m. $18 members, $36 nonmembers.
“Torah on the Trails” — Hike the Bay Area Ridge Trail at the Presidio in S.F. for mindful movement and Tu Bishvat prayer. Bring lunch for a post-hike picnic. Presented by Congregation Beth Sholom. Meet at 300 Finley Road, Presidio Golf Course Entrance, S.F. 10:30 a.m. Free.
Monday | February 2
Young Adult Tu Bishvat Happy Hour — A complimentary drink, socializing and Del Poppolo pizza for people in their mid-20s to 40s. Presented by Congregation Beth Sholom’s Youngish group. At Propagation Plant Bar, 895 Post St., S.F. 5:30 p.m. Free.
East Bay
Sunday | February 1
Tu Bishvat Family Celebration — Urban Adamah, PJ Library and Jewish Gateways welcome families to explore nature-focused holiday activities and taste the Seven Species. At 1151 Sixth St., Berkeley. 4-5:30 p.m. $9-$36 per person, sliding scale.
Tu Bishvat Seder — Urban Adamah, Wilderness Torah and Jewtina y Co. invite all to feast on local produce and Covenant wines. At Urban Adamah, 1151 Sixth St., Berkeley. 6-9 p.m. $54-$118, sliding scale.
Tu Bishvat Family Celebration — JCC East Bay and Wilderness Torah invite families with children 3-8 to plant trees and seeds, make nature crafts and smoothies and walk to Live Oak Park. At JCC, 1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. 2-4 p.m. $22 family ticket (two adults with children), $11 additional adult.
Tu Bishvat Celebration — Community event and potluck for the new year of the trees. Presented by Tri-Valley Cultural Jews. At a private residence in Livermore. 10:30 a.m. $15 suggested donation. RSVP at [email protected] or (925) 399-8029.
South Bay
Sunday | February 1
Tu Bishvat Concert and Nature Experience — Jewish Baby Network invites families with kids 0-5 to celebrate the birthday of the trees with a concert, holiday snacks and planting of parsley. At Congregation Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills. 3-5 p.m. Free.
The Sunday Spread — J. and ENGAJ invite young adults to a Tu Bishvat-themed afternoon of shmoozing and crafting collages and zines. At Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. 1-3 p.m. Free.
North Bay
Monday | February 2
“Tu B’shvat Yoga: Roots to Rise” — Yoga class with a Tu B’shvat theme. Presented by Osher Marin JCC, 200 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael. 1:30-3 p.m. Free to $14.