Joy is on the menu

With a calendar year full of Jewish holidays, both big and small, knowing how to navigate each one can leave you thinking, “Oy!” 

Rebekah Lowin is here to guide you in hosting with her new book, A Year of Jewish Joy: Inspired Recipes, Rituals, and Traditions for Beautiful Celebrations. The magazine editor, writer, content creator, and mother of two brings her own traditions—and some new ones—to create her book. 

“I think [the book is] equally helpful to someone who’s hosting for the first time and someone who’s hosting for the 50th time,” she said. Lowin said. “Who doesn’t want to see more Jewish joy out in the world?” 

Lowin’s unique approach to hosting Jewish holidays takes readers beyond the basics with 12 thoughtful essays, 75 kosher recipes, whimsical table decorations, and even crafts to spice up each special day.  

There are chapters offering Shabbat themes and how to “shop your own home” for Chanukah decor. The author draws inspiration from her own mother’s DIY projects, recalling hand-painted tambourines during a seder and passed-down recipes from her grandmother. 

While there’s no shortage of whimsy, Lowin said her book is also meant to help observe holidays during a time when Jewish people need to “unify.”  

“I really hope that this book will feel at home on the shelves of the most devout religious family, [and of] someone who is just exploring Judaism or Jewishness for the first time,” Lowin said. 

Growing up in Connecticut outside of a formal Jewish community, Lowin’s home life shaped her religious identity.  

She was raised by a father who grew up observant, speaking Yiddish, and a mother who was a Broadway actress and the daughter of an Auschwitz survivor. Together, they emphasized spirituality and passed down a strong sense of Judaism through Shabbat dinners, family recipes, and creative twists on traditions.  

“I believe strongly that Jewish life starts at home, and in my opinion, is fortified best at home,” Lowin said. “That’s my life story.” 

The unique book brings together Lowin’s extensive career, which includes writing for media outlets such as Martha Stewart Living, Forbes, and NBC, as well as creating her own blog. She also sings, paints, cooks, and bakes. “I do it all,” Lowin said.   

As the High Holidays approach, readers can turn to Lowin’s chapters on Rosh Hashanah as well as Yom Kippur break-fast for inspiration. The author strives to go beyond the classic “apples and honey” decor to create a cozy, fall-themed Jewish new year. She recommends to readers, for instance, how to create shofar place cards to both serve up some playfulness and to pull the whole Rosh Hashanah aesthetic together.  

“I sourced these miniature plastic shofars, and then some magic ensued,” she said. “I’ve seen a million Jewish crafts for kids. I wanted to provide something for the grown-ups,” Lowin said.  

Hosting Yom Kippur break-fast typically has a different feel from other celebratory Jewish holidays. Lowin reimagines the break-fast experience. “It was really interesting in a book called A Year of Jewish Joy, having a chapter all about Yom Kippur,” she said. “Yet, I really do believe that Yom Kippur break-fast is one of the most joyous—a relief. I love that the wonderful feeling of coming together with a bunch of other very hungry people.” Lowin offers a break-fast “blueprint” to create the best spread for your guests. 

The main takeaway, the author said, is to just go with it—even the stressful parts. “Here’s how to host, and it’s going to be a little stressful because you’re doing something that matters,” Lowin said. “Let’s laugh at this and have fun with our stress.”  

A Year of Jewish Joy will be available everywhere books are sold on Sept. 8. 

Elyssa Kaufman is a Digital News Producer at CBS Chicago.