This June, Chicago will celebrate its profound connection to the State of Israel through a series of special events and celebrations. To kick things off, the entire community is invited to Chicago Loves Israel, a fun-filled day of festivities for all ages presented by JCC Chicago and JUF, on Sunday, June 2, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., at Bernard Weinger JCC in Northbrook. The event will be co-chaired by Erika and Justin Burton.

Start the day with film and fitness for adults, including two special Cycle Israel classes at the Marvin Lustbader Health Club, powered by Midtown. A special screening of the Israeli film, Good Morning Son , followed by facilitated discussion, will begin at 9:15 a.m. Guests are welcome to explore the 36-piece touring photography exhibit, Humans of Tel Aviv , by internationally recognized photographer Erez Kaganovitz.

The party continues from 1-2:30 p.m. with experiences created exclusively for teens: silk screening, a DJ dance party, photobooth, graffiti wall, Eilat beach party, Krav Maga, and an Israel-focused service project. End the day at the Young Family Festival, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Children and their parents will love exploring Israel with an array of hands-on activities: an archeological dig, drum circle, candle making, Jerusalem shuk with Kosher snacks, planting, swimming, and an IDF obstacle course. The day will culminate with a live, outdoor concert featuring musician Rick Recht and other local cantors and vocalists.

Join us for another Chicago Loves Israel special event at Bernard Horwich JCC in West Rogers Park on Sunday, June 23, from 1-4 p.m., featuring an outdoor family concert with Israeli singer Itzik Dadya, along with his band. Working in partnership with the Jewish Neighborhood Development Council of Chicago and other Jewish organizations, this event promises a variety of ways to celebrate with a round robin of Torah study, hands-on activities, refreshments, and more.

And that’s not all. Later this year, a three-month series of special arts and culture events will be held in partnership with the South Suburban Cooperative Jewish Council. Activities will include scholars-in residence, an Israeli concert, dancing, film, and a family-friendly program with Beit AmiChai School of Jewish Education. 

Show your love! When you register, you will have the opportunity to make a gift to JUF in honor of Israel’s 71st anniversary. Your contribution will provide needy Israeli children living in JUF’s Partnership Region with basic supplies for a successful school year.

Visit juf.org/chicagolovesisrael for details and to register.

Elizabeth Abrams is the director of Program Marketing and Communications for JCC Chicago.