Bay Area couples and singles spent a night mingling and celebrating the joy of love at a first-time event at the JCC of the East Bay in Berkeley last month.
The Aug. 11 event, “A Jewish Evening of Love,” celebrated the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Av, which isn’t well known in this country but is Israel’s version of Valentine’s Day.
The night’s activities included champagne sipping, chocolate nibbling, cupcake decorating, lectures on love in Jewish teachings and Israeli folk dancing.
In addition, couples could renew their wedding vows underneath a chuppah, and attendees were encouraged to write love letters.
More than 80 people showed up for the 21-and-over event, which was such a hit that it was extended past its scheduled 9 p.m. closing time.
“I was truly amazed how many people came to the event,” said Rabbi Bridget Wynne, executive director of Jewish Gateways and a coordinator of the event. “People really opened up to each other and connected on a deep level.”
Under the chuppah, for example, couples spoke about their appreciation for their relationships and their partners. Wynne also gave love blessings (to singles as well as couples) and talked about symbolism and Jewish wedding rituals, some of which people could recreate.
Another hit was the love letters station. Jewish texts and poems were spread over the table, helping people write letters to themselves, a significant other or a friend. Some letters were shared, others saved to give at a later time.
Upon arrival, attendees chose from a variety of different colored wristbands — indicating whether they were looking for men, women or friendship (or a combination thereof).
The free event was part of the Holiday for Adults series cosponsored by Building Jewish Bridges, JCC East Bay and Jewish Gateways.