New York City is gearing up for Sukkot 2025, a weeklong Jewish festival, by hosting a rich variety of celebrations—from traditional meals in sukkahs and cultural performances to live music, poetry readings, and family-friendly outdoor activities. This guide spotlights 13 special opportunities across the city to embrace the spirit of Sukkot, strengthen community bonds, and foster meaningful connections.
The Spirit of Sukkot
Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Booths, begins on Monday evening following Yom Kippur and lasts for one week. The holiday traditionally involves eating in a sukkah—a temporary outdoor structure with three walls and a leafy roof—symbolizing the shelters the Israelites lived in during their 40 years of wandering in the desert. It is also a harvest festival and a time to deepen connections with friends and family.
In a city as vibrant and diverse as New York, Sukkot celebrations take on creative and unique forms, catering to different ages, interests, and communities. From communal gatherings under the stars to workshops, concerts, and family days, there’s something for everyone.
Highlight Events During Sukkot 2025
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Sukkot Under the Stars — Wednesday, October 8 (6:30–8:30 PM)
A rooftop sukkah event offering stunning city views, light appetizers, and an open bar, creating a perfect setting for young adults to connect socially. -
Poetry Readings in the Sukkah — Wednesday, October 8 (6:30 PM)
Six contemporary Jewish poets will share their work, followed by a discussion on joy and revelation, and a group writing exercise. -
Taylor Swift Album Release Party in the Sukkah — Wednesday, October 8 (7:30–9:00 PM)
A playful fusion of pop culture and tradition, featuring friendship bracelet-making, Torah and gematria connections, and listening to Swift’s latest album. -
Prospect Park Sukkot Festival — Thursday, October 9 (10 AM–4 PM)
A family-oriented outdoor day with nature-based activities, crafts, and free carousel rides for kids under 18 during the morning. -
Chol Hamoed Concert by the Yeshiva Boys Choir — Thursday, October 9 (2–5 PM)
A free concert at the iconic Coney Island Amphitheater, concluding the summer series with lively music. -
Family Dinner in the Sukkah — Thursday, October 9 (5–6:30 PM)
A pizza dinner with music, crafts, and storytelling for families with young children. -
Arabic, Hebrew & Persian Calligraphy Workshop — Thursday, October 9 (6:30–8:30 PM)
A hands-on exploration of artistic and cultural connections between three beautiful script traditions. -
Shabbat in the Sukkah with Wandering Jews of Astoria — Friday, October 10 (6:30 PM)
A vegetarian potluck dinner with a brief Shabbat service in a communal sukkah. -
Sukkot Club Night — Saturday, October 11 (10 PM–3 AM)
An adults-only indoor party featuring DJs, dancing, and drinks all night long. -
Sukkot Music & Comedy Show — Saturday, October 11 (8:30 PM)
A night of indie pop music, stand-up comedy, and an after-party with a live DJ. -
Michael and the Rockness Monsters Concert — Sunday, October 12 (11:30 AM–12:30 PM)
A lively, interactive family concert at a well-known Jewish museum. -
Sukkot 3000 Festival — Sunday, October 12 (4–10 PM)
A large indoor-outdoor music event featuring live bands, DJs, a kosher sushi station, and an open bar.
Tradition Meets Modernity
These diverse events illustrate New York’s unique approach to Sukkot—blending ancient religious traditions with modern cultural expressions, ensuring there’s something meaningful and enjoyable for everyone during this festive week.