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Jewish communities the world over are heading for the great outdoors this week, scheduling a host of barbeques, carnival games and bonfires in celebration of Lag B’Omer, the festival that marks the anniversary of the passing of the 2nd century sage Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai.
Beginning this year on Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday, the festivities are in keeping with Bar Yochai’s instruction to celebrate the day as heralding the dissemination of the Torah’s esoteric teachings. One of the preeminent students of Rabbi Akiva, Bar Yochai authored the Kabbalistic source text known as the Zohar.
In Westminster Rabbi Benjy and Leah Brackman, co-directors of Chabad of NW Metro Denver, are getting ready for some golf and go karts. On Thursday afternoon May 10, they’ll be heading to Adventure Golf and Raceway in Westminster for a community Lag B’Omer barbeque and other outdoor activities.
They’ll be cooking up the usual fare – hot dogs, chicken wings and hamburgers – for the community, and will also be giving away Mother’s Day gifts to those who register ahead of the event.
Unlike other holidays, which have various ritual requirements, Lag B’Omer’s main focus is gathering Jews, especially children, for a day of pride and togetherness, explained Rabbi Benjy Brackman. “They’re just being Jewish, that may be the point. Just being Jewish, and being proud: That’s a big part of what Lag B’Omer is.”
After nearly a decade of Lag B’Omer events, including a bike ride last year, Brackman said he’s excited to try out the spot, which he has been driving by every day for years.
“It’s totally new venue for our programs,” he said. “We hope to engage people who perhaps would not be coming to a Torah class or Sabbath morning services.”
WHERE: Adventure Golf and Raceway – 9650 Sheridan Blvd Westminster, CO 80031
WHEN: Thursday May 10, 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
COST: $10 per person – (covers bbq, a round of mini golf and go karts) $45 family maximum
RSVP @ www.COJewish.com or call 303.429.5177
Story was originally filed on Chabad.org by Karen Schwartz
