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(Photo credit: HebrewSchool.info)
In the vibrant and diverse landscape of South Florida, the Chabad Sukkah Mobiles have become a cherished tradition that embodies the spirit of Sukkot. As the Jewish community gathers to celebrate this important holiday, these mobile sukkahs offer a unique and engaging way to share the joy of Sukkot with people of all ages.
Sukkot or Sukkos in Yiddish, often referred to as the Festival of Booths, is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the 40-year journey of the Israelites in the desert.
During this time, families build temporary booths called sukkahs, adorned with natural elements like palm fronds, fruits, and decorations. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity as communities come together to celebrate the harvest festival.
For years, Chabad has been taking the spirit of Sukkot to the streets and reaching people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in this festive tradition.
This year (5785/2024) the holiday begins the evening of Wednesday, Oct 16, and concludes on the evening of Wednesday, Oct 23, when the holiday switches to Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah.
The Chabad Sukkah Mobiles are custom-built vehicles or trailers that feature a sukkah with schach on its roof. These mobile sukkahs provide a welcoming space for anyone to step inside and fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) of dwelling in a sukkah during the holiday of Sukkot. They also will be equipped with a Lulav & Etrog set, allowing anyone that wishes to use it for the mitzvah.
One of the key features of these Sukkah Mobiles is their mobility. Chabad volunteers drive them to various locations, including public parks, shopping centers, and even college campuses, ensuring that people from all walks of life can join in the celebration. It’s a creative way to make the holiday accessible and inclusive.
Another great use of the Sukkah Mobile is for people who reside in condos that don’t have a place for a Sukkah. The Mobile Sukkah can park in a regular parking space, allowing residents to use it during the holiday, while not getting in anyone’s way.
Beyond simply providing a place to eat a meal or say a blessing, the Sukkah Mobiles are used as a tool for community engagement and education. Chabad volunteers are on hand to welcome visitors, explain the significance of Sukkot, and answer any questions. This outreach effort helps foster a sense of connection and understanding among people of different backgrounds.
The Sukkah Mobiles are particularly effective in promoting inclusivity and unity within the Jewish community. Families of all denominations and backgrounds come together to enjoy a meal or celebrate Sukkot in these mobile booths. It’s a beautiful demonstration of how traditions can bridge divides and strengthen community bonds.
The Chabad Sukkah Mobiles have become a beloved tradition in South Florida, bringing the essence of Sukkot to the broader community. Through their mobility and outreach efforts, Chabad Lubavitch centers in the region have successfully created an inclusive and joyful atmosphere for celebrating this important holiday. As South Florida continues to grow and diversify, the Sukkah Mobiles serve as a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coexist to create meaningful connections and shared celebrations.
To learn more about Sukkot or to host a Mobile Sukkah at your location of choice visit ChabadChayil.org/Sukkah or call 305-770-1919.
Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP – an afterschool program for Jewish children in public schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He is the rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at 305-770-1919 or rabbi@ChabadChayil.org.
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