The annual Syracuse Klezfest festival celebrated its most successful year yet, drawing over 2,000 members of the Jewish community. At the heart of the festivities was Chabad of Syracuse, led by Rabbi Yaakov Rappaport, which hosted three engaging booths that captivated attendees of all ages.
One of the main attractions was the Shofar Factory, where families and children had the unique opportunity to craft their own shofars under expert guidance. The Ask the Rabbi booth provided a welcoming space for individuals to pose questions and seek guidance from Rabbi Rappaport and other knowledgeable volunteers. Meanwhile, the Chabad House booth offered a variety of activities, including Shabbos candle and honey cake distribution, the sale of Mezuzos and Jewish literature and of course wrapping tefilin with dozens of attendees.
A highlight of the festival came when Rabbi Rappaport was invited on stage to blow the shofar for the audience. His powerful words of resilience and strength, encouraging the Jewish community to rise up against those who wish us harm with Mitzvas and Jewish pride, followed by the shofar blowing, resonated deeply with the crowd.
In a surprise moment, the Rabbi publicly asked the emcee, Hughie Stone-fish, a popular celebrity and comedian, to wrap Tefillin, which he gladly agreed to, and together, in a major display of Jewish pride, they performed the Mitzvah on stage, inspiring the entire audience and creating an everlasting Kiddush Hashem.
“This year’s Klezfest was an incredible display of Jewish unity and pride,” exclaimed Rabbi Rappaport. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many members of our community and inspire their Jewish commitment.”
