June 6-8| 10-12 Sivan 5785| Armon Hotel, CT|
This Is Your Shabbos. Don’t Miss It.
As Shavuos approaches — a time that reminds us of our shared roots and the timeless wisdom we inherited — it’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect. What better way to do that than through a Shabbos surrounded by community, meaning, and a sense of belonging that speaks to both heart and heritage.
Over 1,000 Yidden — from 40 communities across 16 states, representing the full spectrum of Torah observance — will come together in true achdus.
What began as the National Russian Shabbaton has evolved into a full-scale International Shabbaton, now welcoming over 1,000 participants annually. Today, most lectures are in English, and all main events and keynote sessions are conducted in English — making the program ideal for both American and Russian-speaking Jews. The Shabbaton is made possible by the Lubavitch Youth Organization and Chamah International.
Every hour, five lectures run concurrently — typically three in English and two in Russian — offering diverse topics in Torah, relationships, emotional health, Jewish pride, and personal growth. It’s a deeply moving and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Have a burning question you’ve always wanted to ask — but never knew who to ask? Now’s your chance. This year’s Ask the Rabbi (and Rebbetzin!) panel brings together some of the most sought-after Jewish voices of our time: Rabbi Manis Friedman, known for his bold clarity and humor; Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, a distinguished dayan and expert in halacha from Australia with decades of experience guiding communities worldwide; and Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis-Wolff, renowned speaker and author with a powerful, heartfelt perspective. No topic is off-limits — from relationships to identity, faith, family, and everything in between. Expect real questions and real answers.
And that’s just the beginning…
The whole weekend is stacked with speakers who will make you laugh, think, cry (the good kind), and leave you inspired. Meet the lineup:
Rabbi Manis Friedman– Renowned Chasidic rabbi, author, and dean of the Bais Chana Institute of Jewish Studies. He is celebrated for his profound insights into relationships, faith, and purpose, and is the author of Doesn’t Anyone Blush Anymore?
Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis-Wolff– renowned author and speaker, known for her powerful talks on relationships, marriage, and parenting. As the daughter of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis and leader of Hineni Couples, she shares timeless Jewish wisdom with warmth, strength, and clarity. Writer of acclaimed book, Raising A Child With Soul
Ofir Akunis – Consul General of Israel, bringing timely perspective
Judith Raanan – Survivor of captivity by Hamas, courageously sharing her powerful story of faith, strength, and resilience
Rabbi Dovber Baitman – Thoughtful Torah teacher known for blending intellectual clarity with heartfelt, practical messages.
Rabbi Benzion Laskin– Renowned lecturer on Torah and Kabbalah, Life coach, Shabbaton Director
Rabbi Aaron I. Reichel, Esq. – Attorney and ordained rabbi, author of The Maverick Rabbi, and former editor of various publications, offering a meaningful perspective on Jewish life, law, and legacy.
… and many more
One of the most meaningful accomplishments of the Shabbaton has been the many Jewish families that have started here — and this year’s singles program is stronger than ever. With Shadchanit Chava Kober personally guiding the process and offering insight, the program is designed to create real connections in a respectful, warm environment. Adding even more depth to the experience are the powerful talks by Rabbi Manis Friedman, whose candid and Torah-rooted approach to relationships and self-worth speaks directly to today’s singles. His wisdom, clarity, and humor offer the kind of insight that doesn’t just inspire — it reshapes how we think about love, commitment, and building a life with purpose. Every year, new couples walk away with something life-changing — and last year, one couple who met at the very first Shabbaton came back with their kids in tow.
Kids are in for an amazing time with a full-day program packed with fun, learning, and exciting activities — so parents can relax and enjoy the Shabbaton to the fullest. Plus, there’ll be professional babysitting available throughout the weekend to help with the little ones.
A highlight of the Shabbaton is the vibrant musical entertainment planned for Motzei Shabbos. Attendees will enjoy performances by renowned artists, including Israeli composer and singer Zlata Razdolina, Singer Moish, Broadway performer Dudu Fisher, and Cantor Moshe Shur. These concerts aim to provide a soulful and joyous conclusion to the Shabbos experience.
One of the most moving elements of the Shabbaton is its diversity. Participants include scientists, artists, engineers, students, baalei teshuvah, single parents, young professionals, and grandparents — all gathering around the same Shabbos table. This sense of Jewish unity — achdus — is not just a theme, it’s the lived experience of the weekend. Combined with the 5 star experience at the newly renovated Armon Hotel (fittingly named “palace” in Hebrew), the setting offers the perfect blend of comfort and class. Guests are treated to a full Shabbos experience in style, with gourmet cuisine by Nesher Catering that’s as abundant as it is delicious — from beautifully plated meals to a 24-hour tea room that keeps the conversations (and coffee) flowing. Whether it’s your first time lighting Shabbos candles or you’ve been doing it for decades, there’s a place for you here — around the table, in the conversation, and in the heart of the Shabbaton.
“I grew up disconnected from my Jewish identity,” shared one participant. “But on the Shabbaton, I felt like I rediscovered my roots. The singing, the classes, the people — it felt like coming home to a part of myself I didn’t know was missing.”
“People were there to learn, and to feel like we are all a part of the story of the Jewish people,” said another participant. “The atmosphere is deeply spiritual yet completely down-to-earth. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or walking in for the first time, you feel it immediately: this is a place where I belong.”
The Shabbaton serves as an effective and meaningful platform for Shluchim to help their mekuravim grow in their connection to Yiddishkeit. Thanks to the consistent efforts of these Shluchim, the event continues to succeed year after year. While the Shabbaton lasts just a few days, its influence often leads to long-term spiritual growth and stronger ties to Jewish life.
This remarkable event is made possible each year through the tireless efforts of Rabbi Benzion Laskin (Shabbaton Director), who leads the project with dedication and vision. The Shabbaton is a joint initiative of and in part subsidized by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, under the leadership of Program Director Rabbi Kasriel Kastel, and Chamah International, led by Rabbi Hillel Zaltzman (President), Rabbi Moshiach Chudaitov (Executive Vice President), Rabbi Binyomin Malachovski (Executive Director), and Rabbi Berri Spitezki (Director of Development).
Together with the devoted Program Committee — Rabbis Baruch Lepkivker, Moshe Chaim Levin, Velvel Belinsky, and Eli Kogan — Rabbi Laskin has overseen every detail of the Shabbaton’s planning and execution, ensuring a smooth and meaningful experience for all attendees.
For more information and to register, visit shabbaton.net or call 646-565-3735
