Thursday, Dec. 18
Hadassah Young Women, L'Dor V'Dor of Raritan Valley Book Club. "Hanukkah Lights: Stories of the Season" (as presented on National Public Radio) by Harlan Ellison, Anne Roiphe, and Elie Wiesel. Panera, 871 US Hwy. 1, NORTH BRUNSWICK. 7:30 p.m. $3 members. $7 non-members. RSVP or for more information contact Jennifer at (732) 940-2442 or YWHadassahevents@yahoo.com.
Click here for the Hanukkah Calendar!
Friday, Dec. 19
Temple Emanu-El. Shabbat service on the theme of healing with Peri Smilow.100 James St., EDISON 8 p.m. Information, contact: Lee Liss (732) 369-3270 or Jewell S. Hirschorn (732) 549-4442.
P'nai OR. Jewish Renewal Kabbalat Shabbat. Trinity Church, 33 Mercer St., PRINCETON. 7:30 p.m. Information, Rabbi Marcia Praeger (609) 947-1319.
Temple Emanu-El. Erev Shabbat Service with Peri Smilow. Focus on healing. 100 James St., EDISON 8 p.m. Information, (732) 549-4442.
Saturday, Dec. 20
Temple Emanu-El. The morning begins with stories from the Torah. Then, at 10 a.m., the MORNING SERVICE will be a Shabbat B'shir featuring the lovely music of the multi-talented singer-songwriter Peri Smilow. Followed by a Kiddush lunch. 100 James St., EDISON Information, contact: Lee Liss (732) 369-3270 or Jewell S. Hirschorn (732) 549-4442.
Temple Emanu-El. Stories from the Torah with Peri. 9:15 a.m. Shabbat B'Shir with Peri Smilow. Geared toward all ages. 10 a.m. 100 James St., EDISON Information, (732) 549-4442.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Temple Beth O'r/ Beth Torah. Neshama Carlebach, daughter of Shlomo Carlebach, and her band, featuring special guests The Green and Pastures Baptist Choir. 111 Valley Rd., CLARK. 4 p.m. Patron includes four tickets at premier seating, CD, and meet the entertainer: $500. Sponsor includes 2 tickets, preferred seating, and meet the entertainer: $180. Admission by ticket only. Information, (732) 381-8403.
JCC of Central New Jersey. Family Mitzvah Day. Projects include sorting food and delivering it to the JFS Food Pantry in Elizabeth, making holiday cards for homebound seniors and crafts for Ashbrook Nursing Home residents, and setting up cots and toiletry bags at Temple Emanu-El in Westfield for their "Housing the Homeless" project. 1391 Martine Ave., SCOTCH PLAINS. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Information, Sandra Kernoff (908) 889-8800 x221.
Monday, Dec. 22
Mamaloshen. Jewish discussion group, led by Rabbi Michael Klein. Refreshments. Manchester Civic Center, Rte., 37 and Colonial Dr., MANCHESTER. 1 p.m. Information, call Julius at (732) 323-8220 or Joe at (732) 323-0090.
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Temple Beth Ahm of ABERDEEN. Family Bingo. 550 Lloyd Rd., ABERDEEN. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 583-1700.
Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. An evening with Yisrael Campbell. The comedian once known as Christopher Campbell tells his story of how he evolved from his Italian Irish upbringing to life as an Orthodox Jew. Food will be served. 201 South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 7 p.m. In advance: $38. At door: $45. Proceeds go to Livnot fund to rebuild from the fire two years ago. Information, (732) 545-6482, or email at NateK917@msn.com.
Thursday, Dec. 25
Rabbi Pesach Raymon Yeshiva. Open House for parents of prospective students. Meet teachers and visit classes. 2 Harrison, St., EDISON. 9-10 a.m. RSVP, (732) 572-502 x202.
Sunday, Dec. 28
YM-YWHA of UNION. Sunday Funday with Label Ben Moshe. Light exercise followed by brunch and entertainment. 501 Green Ln., UNION. 12 p.m. Members: $4. Non-members: $6. Information, Susan, (908) 289-8112.
Wednesday, Dec. 31
Congregation Ahavas Achim Sisterhood. Fun, Food, and Music. Team Trivia with Emcee Barry Seiden. 201 S.1st Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8 p.m. $25. RSVP by Dec. 15 and send check to AA office. Information, Debbi Diament (732) 572-3540.
Congregation Etz Chaim Monroe Township Jewish Center. Dance to sounds of Sky High Entertainment. All are welcome. Hot kosher dinner buffet. BYOB; mixers provided. Congregation Etz Chaim Monroe Township Jewish Center 11 Cornell Ave., MONROE. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $40 per person, temple members $45 per person, all others. Any questions, call Stephanie Belzer (732) 251-9499. RSVP & mail Money by December 22 to Etz Chaim, MTJC 11 Cornell Avenue Monroe Township, N.J. 08831.
Friday, Jan. 2
Temple Emanu-El. Shabbat Hallelu. All are welcome to worship, sing, and dance in the aisles with people of all ages. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 7:45 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat service at 6 p.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Monday, Jan. 5
The JCC of Middlesex County. Israel information evening. Are you between 18 and 26 years old and interested in traveling to Israel for a summer, semester, or year? A shaliach and past participants of programs will present information about trips with Birthright, college programs, volunteer opportunities and more. 1775 Oak Tree Rd., EDISON. 7:30 p.m. RSVP by Jan. 2 to Linda, (732) 906-0737.
Tuesday, Jan.6
The Colonia Chapter of Hadassah. Elaine Durbach on "Voices from Zimbabwe." Guests are welcome. Temple Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 12 p.m. Information, Millie (732) 381-9054.
Wednesday, Jan. 7
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. Don't Put Your Life on Hold: Strategies and Tips to Help You Live Your Life While Supporting Your Loved One with Dementia. Davida Nugiel, MSW conducts five sessions on the second Wednesday of each month beginning Jan. 7. Bear Creek Assisted Living, 291 Village Rd., East, WEST WINDSOR. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. RSVP by Jan. 5 to Dottie (609) 987-8100.
Thursday, Jan. 8
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. People, Participation & Prayer: How Do We Identify, Learn and Grow as Jews? 230 Old Bridge Tpk., SOUTH RIVER. 6-8 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Care, Community and Connection: Meeting Our Social Service Needs. 230 Old Bridge Tpk., SOUTH RIVER. 8-10 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. "The Benefits of Laughter," with Pam Jones, RN, an Integrative Therapy Nurse at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton. Bear Creek Assisted Living, 291 Village Road East, WEST WINDSOR. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free to seniors. RSVP by Jan. 5 to Linda Meyer, (609) 987-8100.
Saturday, Jan. 10
Temple Emanu-El. Simchat Shabbat worship service, an informal, intimate worship experience conducive to adults and families, followed by bagels and coffee. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 9-10:15 a.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Congregation Neve Shalom. "Great Cantors of the Golden Age" film. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 7:30 p.m.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Havdalah led by Hebrew school Bet students, with stories, songs, musical instruments, blessings, and treats. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 5:30 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 548-2238 x. 14
East Brunswick Hadassah. Progressive Dinner. Eat, talk and connect with Israel through Hadassah. At a private home. Couvert is $118 per couple/ $59 per person. For reservations or information, email mirahb@comcast.net or call Diane (732) 297-5964.
Sunday, Jan. 11
Congregation B'nai Tikvah. Blood donor drive for ages 17 and up, good general health and 120 lbs. or more. It's advisable to have eaten before donating. ID with signature is necessary. FDA Regulations require a Donor's or Social Security number on your application. Walk in. Ask about ALYX. Large screen TV will carry the NFL Playoffs and each donor will get a $15 Gas Card. 1001, Finnegans Ln., NORTH BRUNSWICK. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Information, (732) 297-3198, or (800) BLOODNJ.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Rabbi Zelizer will offer a free one-time workshop dealing with issues involving death, shiva, mourning practices, and other pertinent questions. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 10 a.m. Free. Information, (732) 548-2238 x18.
YM-YWHA of UNION. Annual Raffle Party. The largest fund-raiser of the year, prizes include a trip for two to Israel, a computer package, a camera/video package or a Y service. Tickets are $100 each. Cocktail hour with assorted hot and cold hors d'ouevres, along with a sushi bar. Kosher Catering by Majestic Caterers. Dancing will follow, with musical entertainment by Tuvia Zimber and his Orchestra. 501 Green Ln., UNION. 6 p.m. Ticket holders can bring a guest to the party for an extra $36. Reservations by Dec. 29. Information or tickets, Susan Cohen or Jani Jonas at (908)-289-8112.
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center. Membership, preschool and camp open house. Tour the JCC, swim in the indoor pool, shoot hoops in the gymnasium and participate in class demos. 775 Talamini Rd., BRIDGEWATER. 1-4 p.m. New members joining at this open house save up to $200. New camp registration save up to $100. Information, (908) 725-6994 x201.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Jewish trends that shape the future. Old Franklin School, 491 Rte., 27, METUCHEN. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Jewish trends that shape the future. 230 Old Bridge Tpk., SOUTH RIVER. 3-5 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Jewish trends that shape the future. Senior/Youth Center 220 6th Ave., Room 2, HIGHLAND PARK. 7-9 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Monday, Jan. 12
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Jewish trends that shape the future. Congregation Concordia, Concordia Shopping Center, MONROE. 2-4 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Temple Emanu-El. Java and Judaism "koffee klatch" with Rabbi David Kalb. Current events of Jewish interest discussion. Rockin' Joe Café, 28 Prospect St., WESTFIELD. 7:30 p.m. Cost of coffee. Information Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Wednesday, Jan. 14
Temple Emanu-El. Knit and crochet blankets or bring your works in progress or finished works to be donated to children with cancer and soldiers in Iraq through Blankets of Love (formerly known as Project Linus). Blankets may be any size from 3' x 5' and larger, and must be made from new, washable materials except wool. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 7:30 p.m. Contact: Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Middlesex Chapter of the Brandeis University National Women's Committee. Gender and the 2008 presidential election, with Susan J. Caroll, professor of political science and women's gender studies at Rutgers University. East Brunswick Library, Ryders Ln., EAST BRUNSWICK. 1 p.m. No fee and all are welcome. For reservations and information, Helene, (732) 254-7691 or Judy, (609) 448-7177.
East Brunswick Hadassah. How to make sushi like an expert, with Ricki Dayan. Attendance is limited. Private home in EAST BRUNSWICK. 7:45 p.m. Free and open to the public. For information and to RSVP, (732) 238-0877 or shalomlinda@aol.com .
Thursday, Jan. 15
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. Handy devices for easier living - Make life simpler through assistive technology, with Curtis Edmonds of NJ Protection and Advocacy, Inc. Includes voice-activated light controls, "Touch Tronic" lamp converters, "Shake Awake" alarm clock, and adapted knob handles for stove dials. Meadow Lakes Community, 300 Meadow Lakes, EAST WINDSOR. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free to seniors. RSVP by Jan. 12 to Linda Meyer, (609) 987-8100.
Friday, Jan. 16
Temple Emanu-El. Zimrat Shabbat (song of Shabbat), an uplifting, joyful, and meaningful family service. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 7:45 p.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Saturday, Jan. 17
Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Screening of "Sisai," an award-winning documentary on Ethiopian Jews in Israel. Includes speaker. 201 South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8 p.m. $5 donation suggested but not required. Information, Udi Shorr (732) 819-9850.
Temple Emanu-El. Tiny Tot Shabbat. For kids 5 and under who like to dance, sing and make craft projects. Learn about Shabbat and different Jewish themes through story and art. Parents and grandparents are welcome. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 9:30 a.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Sisterhood Shabbat followed by Kiddush luncheon. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 9:30 a.m. If you would like to participate in the service in either English or Hebrew contact Susan Goldman, (732) 549-0195.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Showing the movie, "A Cantor's Tale." 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 7:30 p.m. Information, (732) 548-2238 x14.
Monday, Jan. 19
Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. "Spirit and Conscience: What Abraham Joshua Heschel Has to Teach Us Today," with Rabbi Gordon Tucker, senior rabbi at Temple Israel Center in White Plains and assistantprofessor at the Jewish Theological Seminary. South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8 p.m. Members: $5. Non-members: $7. Information, (732) 545-6482.
Tuesday, Jan. 20
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. Antiques Road show with Tom Petrino, appraiser for the N.J. state treasury. Bring your antiques, collectibles, jewelry, watches, pottery, porcelain and artwork (only one item per person please). Monroe Village, One Brainerd Drive, MONROE. 2-3 p.m. Free to seniors. RSVP by Jan. 16 to Linda Meyer, (609) 987-8100.
Saturday, Jan. 24
Temple Emanu-El. Simchat Shabbat worship service, an informal, intimate worship experience conducive to adults and families, followed by bagels and coffee. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 9-10:15 a.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Screening of "A Journey of Spirit," which explores the life of songwriter Debbie Friedman. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 7:30 p.m. Information, (732) 548-2238 x14.
Sunday, Jan. 25
Makhelat Hamercaz Jewish Choir of Central N.J. "Music of the Psalms: Human Responses to the Gifts and Challenges of Life." 5 Paterson St., NEW BRUNSWICK. 6:30 p.m. Information, call (732) 548-2238, x14 or http://mercazchoir.org.
Sunday, Feb. 1
Congregation Beth Ohr Men's Club. Financial program with Ed Mendlowitz, covers what to do with investments 401k, 403b, IRA, and other retirement accounts. Congregation Beth Ohr, Rte., 516, OLD BRIDGE. 10 a.m. Information, (732) 257-1523.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Congregation Knesseth Israel. Hanukkah dinner. Chicken, latkes, salad, and dessert. Grab Bag: Bring a gift, receive a non-gender-specific gift (gifts for adults, $15 value; gifts for preschool-grade 2, $6 value; gifts for grades 3-7, $10 value). Admission: $18/adult; $9/children Hebrew school age. 229 Mountain Ave., BOUND BROOK. 6:30 p.m. Information, (908) 217-8594.Chabad House of MONROE. Hanukkah Party, Chinese buffet. 4 Kelly Ct., MONROE. 7 p.m. RSVP (609) 409-1000.
Chabad of Hunterdon County. Hanukkah Festival featuring the world's largest chocolate Menorah. Chocolate-themed refreshments, live entertainment, crafts, candle-making, face-painting, "Bucking Bull," raffle, prizes. HealthQuest, 310 Rte., 31N, FLEMINGTON. 3-5 p.m. Information, (908) 238-9002.
Chabad of Southern Somerset County. Hanukkah on Ice. Skating, menorah lighting, gelt, latkes, doughnuts, raffle, and crafts. Protech Hockey Ponds Ice Center, 15 Worlds Fair Dr., SOMERSET. 2-4 p.m. $5 includes skate rental and food. $100 family sponsorship available. Information, (908) 874-0444.
Chabad of North and South Brunswick. Hanukkah on Ice. 1000 Cornwall Rd., MONMOUTH JCT. 4-6 p.m. Information, (732) 522-5505.
Bris Avrohom of Old Bridge Hanukkah Carnival. Face painting, game booths with prizes, food venders, raffles, moon bounce and 16' slide. 770 Madison Gardens, OLD BRIDGE. 12- 2:30 p.m. Admission: $10 for children 3 - 13 (includes unlimited game booths and art). Adults and children under 2 free. Information, RSVP, (732) 316-7600 or www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge.
The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. Ambassadors Program Hanukkah Theme Park. For families and children up to grade 8. Activities, free food and prizes. 2:30-4 p.m. South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. Information, (732) 545-6482.
Monday, Dec. 22
Temple Emanu- El. Family Hanukkah celebration. Bring unwrapped gift to give away to someone in need. 100 James St., EDISON. 5:30 p.m. Information, (732) 549-4442.
Chaabad of North and South Brunswick. Menorah lighting. 4017 Rte. 1 South, MONMOUTH JUNCT. 5:30 p.m. Information, (732) 522-5505.
JCC of Middlesex County. Menorah lighting and Hanukkah celebration with music, entertainment, and refreshments. Bring a kosher, non-perishable food item for donation to the Jewish Family and Vocational Service Food Pantry. 1775, Oak Tree Rd., EDISON. 6:30 p.m. No charge. Information, (732) 494-3232.
Chabad of Southern Somerset County. Menorah lighting, followed by raffles, arts and crafts, latkes, doughnuts, dreidels, face painting, and music. Hillsborough Municipal Building, 379 South Branch Rd., HILLSBOROUGH. 6 p.m. Free. Information, (908) 874-0444.
Chabad Jewish Center of Somerset County. Menorah lighting and celebration with local dignitaries, hot latkes, donuts, refreshments and chocolate Hanukkah gelt. Flag Plaza, WARREN. 6 p.m. Information, Rabbi Yitzchok Moully, (908) 604-8844.
Tuesday, Dec. 23
Bat Shalom Hadassah of Jackson-Howell. Hanukkah Menorah Lighting. The Menorah was donated by Rabbi Carlebach, spiritual director of the Chabad of Central and South Jersey. Kosher holiday refreshments will be served in the meeting room of Town Hall 4:30-5:30 p.m., provided by Bat Shalom Hadassah, the Westlake Yiddish Cultural Club and the Yiddish Heritage Club of Winding Ways. Performances by the Jackson Civic Chorus, and the choir of the Hebrew School of Congregation Ahavat Olam, of Howell and Lakewood. Greetings from Jackson mayor. Jackson Town hall, 95 West Veterans Hwy, JACKSON. 4:30-6 p.m. Information, Linda Selznick, (732) 833-0799.Chabad of Southern Somerset County. Giant menorah lighting with food, raffle, face painting and more. Shoprite, 1325 Rte., 206, Skillman. 6 p.m. No charge. Information, (908) 874-0444.
Chabad of North and South Brunswick. Menorah lighting. 710 Hermann Rd., NORTH BRUNSWICK. 5:30 p.m. Information, (732) 522-5505.
Bris Avrohom of Old Bridge Women's Circle Celebration. Light the menorah, enjoy traditional Hanukkah treats, and create decorative flavored olive oils, using glass bottles, herbs and vegetables. 770 Madison Gardens, OLD BRIDGE. 7:30 p.m. Information and RSVP, (732) 316-7600 or www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge.
Chabad House of Monroe Menorah lighting with the mayor and members of the town council. Live music, latkes, and Hanukkah gelt. Concordia Shopping Center, corner Perrineville Rd. near Stop and Shop, MONROE. 3 p.m. RSVP (609) 409-1000.
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Chabad House of Monroe. The Ladies of Chabad. Make a decorative herbal oil bottle, and learn about spreading the light of Hanukkah. 4 Kelly Ct., MONROE. 7:30 p.m. $10 per person suggested donation. RSVP (609) 409-1000.
YM-YWHA of Union Hanukkah luncheon and party. Musical entertainment by Tuvia Zimber. Dinner includes chicken, latkes, salads and more. 501 Green Ln., UNION. 11:30 a.m. Members: $5. Non-members: $7. Reservations by Dec. 22, call Susan, (908) 289-8112.
Thursday, Dec. 25
JCC of Central NJ. Family Fun Day. Children, parents and grandparents are invited to help build the largest Lego ® menorah. There will also be an inflatable bounce house, carnival games, face-painting, tattoos, latkes, songfest and menorah lighting. 1391 Martine Ave. , SCOTCH PLAINS. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Pre-registration: $25 per family. At door: $35 per family. To pre-register or for more information, Randi Zucker, rzucker@jccnj.org or (908) 889-8800 x253.
Congregation Brothers of Israel. Hanukkah evening of comedy featuring comedian Modi, an Israeli native who has lived in U.S. since age 7. Fun for teens and adults. Modi was recently voted one of the top 10 comedians in New York by The Hollywood Reporter and Back Stage. 250 Park Ave., ELBERON. Buffet dinner, 6:30 p.m. Comedy show, 8 p.m. Adults: $36. Students: $20. Tickets at synagogue office, (732) 222-6666.
Friday, Dec. 26
Temple Emanu-El. Family Hanukkah celebration. Potato latkes and donuts to be served. 100 James St., EDISON. 5:30 p.m. Information, contact: Lee Liss (732) 369-3270 or Jewell S. Hirschorn (732) 549-4442. Temple Emanu- El. Shabbat Hanukkah service. 100 James St., EDISON. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 549-4442.
Temple Emanu-El. Hanukkah family service. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 7:45 p.m. Information, (908) 232-6770.
Temple Beth-El. Hanukkah family Shabbat service. Bring your chanukiah and candles as to light up the sanctuary for the 6th night. 67 U.S. Hwy., HILLSBOROUGH. 7 p.m. Information, (908) 722-0674.
Chabad House of Monroe Hanukkah Wonderland. Meet Judah Maccabee, see how olive oil is made, and feast on free doughnuts. Entertainment for all ages. Stop and Stop cafeteria, Concordia Shopping Center, MONROE. 11 a.m. (609) 409-1000.
Saturday, Dec. 27
Temple Emanu-El. Tot Shabbat with Hanukkah craft. 100 James St., EDISON. 9:30 a.m. Information, (732) 549-4442.
Sunday, Dec. 28
The B'nai B'rith Ketubah Married Couples Unit (40+). Annual Hanukkah party. Kosher deli lunch and a $10 gift exchange. Prospective members are welcome to attend. Home in HOLMDEL. 1 p.m. $45 for non-members, but they can attend the party for FREE, if they join Ketubah Unit at the party. RSVP by Dec. 21 to Barbara, (732) 264-6604.Chabad of Southern Somerset County. Menorah Car Parade. Decorate your car with a Hanukkah flag, and follow the Hanukkah mobile through the streets of Hillsborough, Montgomery, and Franklin. Return to the Chabad Jewish Center for food and menorah lighting. 32 New Amwell Rd., Hillsborough. 3:45 p.m. No charge. Information, (908) 874-0444.
Chabad House of Monroe Menorah lighting at the Statue of Liberty. LIBERTY ISLAND. 3:30 p.m. Information, (609) 409-1000.
Etz Chaim Monroe Jewish Center. Hanukkah party with entertainment by the Matzo Balls and the Gesher L'kesher Theatre Troupe. Bring a contribution to the party, baked goods or fruit. 11 Cornell Ave., MONROE. 3 p.m. $5. Children under 13 are free. Information, (732) 251-1119.
Kids & Teens Calendar For general Hanukkah events, see our Hanukkah Calendar
Saturday, Dec. 20
Temple Emanu-El. Stories from the Torah with Peri. 9:15 a.m. Shabbat B'Shir with Peri Smilow. Geared toward all ages. 10 a.m. 100 James St., EDISON. Information, (732) 549-4442.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Bris Avrohom of Old Bridge Hanukkah Carnival. Face painting, game booths with prizes, food venders, raffles, moon bounce and 16' slide. 770 Madison Gardens, OLD BRIDGE. 12- 2:30 p.m. $10 for children 3 -13 (includes unlimited game booths and art). Adults and children under 2 free. Information and RSVP, (732) 316-7600 or www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge.
Congregation Knesseth Israel. Hanukkah dinner. Chicken, latkes, salad, and dessert. Grab Bag: Bring a gift, receive a non-gender-specific gift (gifts for adults, $15 value; gifts for preschool-grade 2, $6 value; gifts for grades 3-7, $10 value). Admission: $18/adult; $9/children Hebrew school age. 229 Mountain Ave., BOUND BROOK. 6:30 p.m. Information, (908) 217-8594.
JCC of Central New Jersey. Family Mitzvah Day. Projects include sorting food and delivering it to the JFS Food Pantry in Elizabeth, making holiday cards for homebound seniors and crafts for Ashbrook Nursing Home residents, and setting up cots and toiletry bags at Temple Emanu-El in Westfield for their "Housing the Homeless" project. 1391 Martine Ave., SCOTCH PLAINS. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Information, Sandra Kernoff (908) 889-8800 x221.
Monday, Dec. 22
Bris Avrohom of OLD BRIDGE. Teen Club bowling, includes games, bowling shoes, pizza and soda. AMF Strathmore Lanes, 1061 Rte. 34 ABERDEEN. 7 p.m. $10. Information and RSVP, (732) 316-7600 or www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge.
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Temple Beth Ahm of ABERDEEN. Family Bingo. 550 Lloyd Rd., ABERDEEN. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 583-1700.
Saturday, Dec. 27
Temple Emanu-El. Tot Shabbat. Children up to six years old marching, singing, playing games and doing Hanukkah arts and crafts. 100 James St., EDISON. 9:30 a.m. Information, contact: Lee Liss (732) 369-3270 or Jewell S. Hirschorn (732) 549-4442.
Friday, Jan. 2
JCC of Western Monmouth. Bowling and pizza for kids. Howell Lanes, 1002 Rte., 9 South, HOWELL. 12-2 p.m. Paid by Dec. 23: $12 per child. At door: $15 pre child. Information, Ian, (732) 683-9300 or Ian@jccwm.com.
Saturday, Jan. 10
Congregation Neve Shalom. Havdalah led by Hebrew school Bet students, with stories, songs, musical instruments, blessings, and treats. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 5:30 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 548-2238 x. 14
Friday, Jan. 16
Temple Emanu-El. Zimrat Shabbat (song of Shabbat), an uplifting, joyful, and meaningful family service. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 7:45 p.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Saturday, Jan. 17
Temple Emanu-El. Tiny Tot Shabbat. For kids 5 and under who like to dance, sing and make craft projects. Learn about Shabbat and different Jewish themes through story and art. Parents and grandparents are welcome. 756 East Broad St., WESTFIELD. 9:30 a.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.
Singular Events
Friday, Dec. 19
Jewish Singles (38-59). Family style kosher Shabbat dinner. Private home in CRANBURY. Limited seating. 7 p.m. $30. Reservations, (609) 468-4127.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Etz Chaim Sociable Singles. Socializing, discussions and refreshments. Congregation Etz Chaim Monroe Township Jewish Center 11 Cornell Ave., MONROE. 1-4 pm. $5. For more information, call - (609) 655-5137.
The Jewish Singles Havurah. Meet at Rick Recht concert. 435 Nassau St., PRINCETON. 12 p.m. Free and open to the public. Information, Mik Rosenthal, ingatherer@earthlink.net.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Etz Chaim Sociable Singles. Socializing, discussion and refreshments. Congregation Etz Chaim Monroe Township Jewish Center, 11 Cornell Ave., MONROE. 1-4 p.m. $5. (609) 655-5137.
Thursday, Dec. 25
Mercer Bucks Jewish Singles. Light the menorah and celebrate Hanukkah with mini-latkes, applesauce, crudités, hummus, mulled cider, and more. Society Hill Clubhouse, 1 Society Way, LAWRENCEVILLE. Bring a 'creative' $5 gift. 3-6 p.m. Members: $10. Non-members: $15. RSVP to mbjs.rsvp@yahoo.com by Dec. 21. Limited to first 50 responses. Directions at http://shltoday.org/about/area/directions.htm.
Saturday, Dec. 27
Professional and Business Singles Network (40-69). Holiday Club House Party and Buffet. Whitehouse Village Club House, Yarrow Ct., WHITEHOUSE STATION. 8 p.m.-12 a.m. $40. Reservations required. Information and directions (610) 348-5544 or www.PBSNinfo.com
Sunday, Dec. 28
Professional and Business Singles Network (30-50+). Holiday Speed Dating Social. Pasta and salad buffet. Dressy attire. Cash bar. Membership not required. Chris Michael's Steakhouse, 40 Oakwood Ave., WOODBRIDGE. 4:30 p.m. $40 prepaid reservation, (610) 348-5544 or www.PBSNinfo.com.
Monday, Dec. 29
Professional and Business Singles Network. After Work Reunion Party. Happy Hour hors d'oeuvres. Just drop in, membership not required. Green Knoll Grille, 645 Rte. 202, BRIDGEWATER. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. $12 cover; cash bar. Information (610) 348-5544 or www.PBSNinfo.com.
Tuesday, Dec. 30
Professional and Business Singles Network (35-65). Pre New Year's Eve Dance Party and Cocktail Social. Dressy casual attire. Just drop in, membership not required. T's Trattoria & Martini Lounge, 1090 Bloomfield Ave., WEST CALDWELL. 6 p.m.-10 p.m. $15 admission, cash bar. Information, (610) 348-5544 or www.PBSNinfo.com.
Wednesday, Dec. 31
Professional and Business Singles Network (40-69). New Year's Eve Buffet and Dance Party Social. Cash bar. Dressy Attire, jacket and tie please. Ramblewood Country Club, 200 Country Club Parkway, MT. LAUREL. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $50. Information, (610) 348-5544.