Houston JCC

Vintage Cake Decorating
2025-10-28 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Step back in time and learn the art of classic cake decorating with expert pastry chef Stefanie Bishop. In this hands-on class, you’ll master vintage techniques like delicate piping, elegant borders, and charming floral designs—perfect for creating stunning cakes with timeless appeal. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced baker, this class offers the perfect blend of skill-building and creative fun. Chef Stefanie brings years of pastry expertise and a passion for beautiful, detailed desserts to every lesson.

Meet and Greet: New Director of Aquatics
2025-10-29 16:30 - 17:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Join us in welcoming James Browning to the J as the new Aquatics Director! Enjoy lite bites while meeting James, asking questions, and learning about exciting plans for our aquatic programs.
Stop by the pool deck to meet James on:
Monday, October 27 at 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM or Wednesday, October 29 at 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM.

17th Annual Rice University Lecture Series: Adi Livny - Violence & Political Imagination
2025-10-29 19:00 | Herzstein Foundation Multipurpose Room
The 17th Annual Rice University Lecture Series
Hebrew Culture Responding to Violence: Before and After October 7
Jewish and Hebrew culture has always reflected and responded to the turbulent and often violent history of the Jewish people, from ancient persecutions to modern conflicts. In recent years, violence has once again profoundly shaped Jewish life and identity, particularly following the events of October 7 and the ongoing aftermath. This lecture series examines how Hebrew culture has grappled with violence across different eras and contexts, from the lived experiences of contemporary artists to the collective memory embedded in literature and history. By exploring these diverse perspectives, we will consider the varied ways Hebrew culture has and continues to process, memorialize and respond to violence in its many forms.
A History of Violence and Political Imagination in Israel/Palestine
This talk examines how episodes of violence have shaped the political imagination of Jews and Arabs in Israel/Palestine. From the 1929 disturbances in Mandatory Palestine to October 7, violence has repeatedly reshaped two central paradigms for the land’s future: partition (“the two-state solution”) and binationalism. By returning to their emergence in the Mandate period and tracing how subsequent waves of violence constrained, redirected and redefined them, the talk considers how October 7 has fundamentally altered current discussions around these two long-standing but persistent paradigms.
Adi Livny is a Visiting Assistant Professor at Middlebury College. She holds a Ph.D. in Jewish History and Contemporary Jewry from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she was a fellow at the Mandel School for Advanced Studies in the Humanities. Her work has appeared in Studies in Contemporary Jewry, Armed Forces & Society and Kursbuch. Her recent publications include “The State, the University, and the Budgeting Formula,” in The History of the Hebrew University, 1948–1967 (Magnes, 2024). She is currently completing her first book, Settlers, Natives, Empire, and the Making of the Hebrew University, 1918–1948.

Cooking for Health: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos & Berry Power Smoothies
2025-10-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Join nutritionist and chef Macy Diulus for a flavorful, health-focused class where you’ll learn to make delicious roasted cauliflower tacos packed with spices and crunch, paired with antioxidant-rich berry power smoothies. Perfect for those looking to eat well without sacrificing taste, this class is part of Macy’s Cooking for Health series that blends nutrition expertise with vibrant, satisfying recipes. Macy brings a deep passion for wholesome eating and practical wellness to every dish she creates.

Open Gym & Tot Shabbat
2025-10-31 10:00, 2025-11-07 10:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
For kids ages 0-5 and their families
Celebrate Shabbat with your friends and family with open gym in the gymnastics center followed by musical services.
Open gym will begin at 10:00 AM in the gymnastics center, followed by music and services at 11:00 AM in the atrium of the Samuels Family Community Pavilion.
RSVPs are required and spaces are limited.

Youth Theatre: Miscast Cabaret
2025-11-01 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
A one-night-only musical showcase featuring current and former J Theatre students performing songs from roles in which they would not traditionally be cast. The roles are flipped, the songs are unexpected and the talent is undeniable!
Funds raised from this event go towards our J Theatre programs and the Junior Theatre Festival Troupe. Support the next generation of performers while enjoying a night full of fun surprises!
Run time: 45 minutes.

Jewish Book Festival: The Macaroons in Concert (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-02 16:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience
Endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family
The Macaroons in Concert and Oh My Nosh!: What Shape is your Bagel:
Gather up the kids for a music filled session with the Macaroons. Their fantastic harmonies and catchy songs like Billy Bagel and Hurry Up and Light the Candle are pure, joyful fun for the whole family – think the Wiggles, only Kosher! As a special treat, the Macaroons will read their delightful Oh My Nosh!: What Shape is Your Bagel? This adorable, brightly illustrated board book uses rhyme to introduce the youngest of readers to favorite Jewish foods like blintzes, kugel, and even gefilte fish.
Community Partner: Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s PJ Library; Temple Sinai Sisterhood; The Bertha Alyce School; Goldberg Montessori School

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Jewish Book Festival: Heart of a Stranger by Angela Buchdahl
2025-11-02 19:00 | Oshman Gymnasium @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Born in Seoul to a Korean Buddhist mother and a Jewish American father, Buchdahl was drawn to faith at a young age. The first Asian American ordained as a rabbi, she overcame negativity and her own self-doubt to make her way from Yale to rabbinical school to the pulpit of New York City’s Central Synagogue. In 2011, Buchdahl was named one of America’s “Most Influential Rabbis” and her honest, intimate book is both a memoir and spiritual guide for anyone seeking deeper meaning in life.

Jewish Book Festival: Local Literati
2025-11-03 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Get ready for an inspiring evening with Houston-based authors as they share the stories behind their latest works—followed by an engaging book signing you won’t want to miss!
Local Literati featured authors include: Gerald Blumenthal, Laurie Bricker, Darlene P. Campos, Dottie Lee, Manizeh Mirza-Gruber, Shelley Nadel, Joy Preble, The Family Promecene and David Sandberg.
Featuring Adam Chandler
99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life
Native Houstonian Adam Chandler embarks on a riveting journey across America, interviewing mayors, teachers, generals, pastors, construction workers, and entrepreneurs to expose the harsh truth: in today’s economy, grit alone is no longer enough to succeed.
Patron Sponsor: Maida Asofsky

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Talking about Israel
2025-11-04 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-11-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Join the J’s Shlicha Shir Benjamin and her husband Aviv for a weekly roundtable conversation on topics related to Israel.
Every week, we will explore a new topic related to Israeli society, culture, news and more. We will share our personal perspectives as Israeli Shlihim and create a learning atmosphere together.
Everyone is welcome! Whether you have been to Israel or are curious to learn more, we welcome you to learn with us, share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussion.
To sign up, please email Shir: sbenjamin@erjcchouston.org
Room 203
In partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.

Jewish Book Festival: Twice by Mitch Albom
2025-11-04 19:30 | Oshman Gymnasium @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
When a grieving man receives a mysterious phone call from his departed wife, he’s pulled into a haunting journey where love defies time, and second chances may come at a price. What if the ones you’ve lost weren’t truly gone? In this deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel, Mitch Albom—bestselling author of Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven—explores the power of memory, faith and the eternal bonds we share. A master storyteller, Albom once again touches the heart with grace and wonder.

2025 Book Festival Community Read
2025-11-05 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Counting Backwards
By Jacqueline Friedland
Wednesday, November 5 | 7:30 PM
In conversation with Barbara Hachenburg Brounes, mediator specializing in civil cases and former trial attorney
Told in two alternating narratives bound by a shocking parallel of issues such as reproductive rights and society’s expectations of women, Counting Backwards is a compelling reminder that progress is rarely a straight line and always hard-won. Jessa Gidney’s quest for justice draws her into the heart of an abhorrent conspiracy. As she uncovers her personal ties to a heartbreaking past, her life takes a dramatic turn, in this emotionally riveting novel inspired by true events. “Erin Brockovich for our times.” (Jill Santopolo, New York Times bestselling author)
Books can be purchased online and picked up at the J’s front desk.

Jewish Book Festival: As a Jew by Sarah Hurwitz
2025-11-06 19:30 | Oshman Gymnasium @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
In this powerful and personal exploration, former White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz—author of the critically acclaimed Here All Along—reclaims Jewish identity by confronting centuries of antisemitic myths and cultural erasure. With wit, humility and deep insight, she delves into ancient traditions, spiritual wisdom and the modern search for belonging. In an era of rising antisemitism, Hurwitz offers a timely, defiant call to challenge stereotypes and embrace Jewish heritage without apology—a moving reflection for seekers, skeptics and believers alike.

School's Out Camp
2025-11-07 09:00 - 15:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
A day off from school does not mean a day off from fun for your kids! The J has got you covered — culinary, games and swim activities happening all day for Kindergarten kids up to 6th grade.
Pick from the three camp options and ensure your kids have an awesome Friday camp day!
Kinder-2nd Grade Camp:
It’s going to be a “bear-y” special day at the J! Campers will decorate adorable bear-shaped cookies, craft colorful bear suncatchers and design their very own tie-dye stuffed teddy bear to take home. Special guest author Nancy Churnin will share her delightful book A Teddy Bear for Emily—And President Roosevelt, Too. The fun includes a splash in our indoor pool!
3rd-6th Grade Culinary Camp:
Come cook up some “bear-y” delicious treats! Kids in this camp will spend the morning in the Culinary Studio and then go swimming and play games in the afternoon.
3rd-6th Grade Best Of Houston Camp:
Come join us for a great day at Main Event! Kids in this camp will swim in the morning and then head out to Main Event for lunch and games

Jewish Book Festival: A Teddy Bear for Emily by Nancy Churnin (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-07 10:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience
Endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family
Emily is bewildered when her mother starts to sew a stuffed bear—her mother has never made a bear before! Far away, President Theodore Roosevelt faces a surprising bear-related moment of his own! When their two stories unexpectedly come together, something wonderful is born: a cuddly new toy that brings comfort and joy to kids everywhere. Based on a true tale, Churnin brings vibrant storytelling and a journalist’s curiosity into this charming story that celebrates creativity, love, and the surprising ways everyday people—and even presidents—can help make history huggable.
Community Partners: Alexander Jewish Family Service

School's Out, Help Out
2025-11-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services, 6200 N Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77074, United States
As Tikkun Olam (repair the world) is such a beautiful and important Jewish value, we are thrilled to partner with Repair the World and invite families with elementary school-age children and their families to join us for meaningful experiences giving back to our Houston community throughout the school year. Each of our five service days throughout the year begins with joyful collaborative Jewish learning followed by hands on service projects that make a tangible difference in the community and ends with a group reflection.
Our first event of the year is close to home! On November 7, we will meet at Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services to spend time with some of our community’s seniors, participating in a meaningful service project with one another that will make a tangible difference in the community and will culminate with a group reflection.

Jewish Book Festival: Shira the Singing Puppy by Ilana Wieder (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-07 11:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience
Endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family
Shira is no ordinary puppy—she was born with a song in her heart and a voice that can light up the world. From her very first howl, she dreams of sharing her music with others, even when some don’t believe in her unique gift. This heartwarming tale celebrates the power of believing in yourself, following your dreams, and letting your true voice shine. The author brings warmth and whimsy to every page, drawing on her love for animals and storytelling to create truly enchanting children’s adventures.
Community Partner: Becker School

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Jewish Book Festival: Shira the Singing Puppy by Ilana Wieder (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-08 16:00 | Samuels Pavilion

HC68 Chopped ft. Beejhy Barhany
2025-11-08 19:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Challenge yourself to create unique dishes in a Chopped-style competition using ingredients inspired by Ethiopia and Israel. The competition will be judged by Beejhy Barhany author of the cookbook Gursha. Let’s get cooking!
Houston Connect 68 (HC68) is a fun, safe community program which offers an exciting mix of social opportunities designed for middle school students, open to the community, members and public.

Jewish Book Festival: Let's Call Her Barbie: A Novel by Renée Rosen
2025-11-08 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
In conversation with Courtney Zubowski Haas, Emmy Award-winning freelance journalist
In this dazzling blend of fact and fiction, Rosen unearths the untold story behind one of the world’s most iconic dolls and the visionary woman who brought her to life. Set against the glittering backdrop of 1950s America, the novel follows Ruth Handler as she defies expectations, battles sexism, and revolutionizes the toy industry. With razor-sharp ambition and unwavering belief, she creates a cultural phenomenon that would shape generations. Rosen, known for her vivid historical fiction, once again brings a forgotten trailblazer into brilliant focus.
Patron Sponsors: Debbie and Rick Kaplan; Susan Rosenbaum and Eric Schoen
Community Partners: Congregation Brith Shalom Sisterhood and Monday Morning Study Group

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Jewish Book Festival: Gursha by Beejhy Barhany
2025-11-09 11:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Food brings people together – a concept this Ethiopian-born and Israeli-raised chef strongly believes. Featuring more than 100 recipes, stories, and traditions, Gursha, which loosely translates to “mouthful” or “the act of feeding one another,” reflects Barhany’s deep desire to celebrate Jewish diversity and inclusion via food. The founding owner and executive chef of Tsion Cafe in New York will introduce readers to both the traditional, like Doro Wat, and the eclectic, such as Injera Fish Tacos. It’s a flavorful journey for the soul that foodies won’t want to miss!

Jewish Book Festival: FILM: Diane Warren: Relentless
2025-11-09 13:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Documentary | Directed by Bess Kargman | 2024 | USA | English | 91 minutes
Diane Warren: Relentless is an intimate and inspiring portrait of the legendary songwriter behind chart-topping hits for icons like Cher, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Celine Dione, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, and Aerosmith. From humble beginnings to 15 Oscar nominations, Warren’s story is one of grit, talent and unshakable drive. Featuring behind-the-scenes footage, star-studded interviews, and the unforgettable songs that defined generations, this compelling documentary reveals what keeps one of music’s most prolific hitmakers pushing forward in a world that told her “no.”
Patron Sponsors: Barbara and Mark Paull; Vicky and Michael Richker
Community Partners: Houston Hillel; Texas Medical Center Orchestra

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Jewish Book Festival: Melting Point by Rachel Cockerell
2025-11-09 16:00 | Congregation Or Ami, 3443 Wilcrest Dr, Houston, TX, 77042
In 1907, a ship packed with 10,000 Russian Jews set sail for Texas, led by the author’s great grandfather. These rebel Zionists were seeking security beyond Palestine, desperate to start a new life. In this innovative family memoir, Cockerell weaves together primary sources—letters, diary entries, interviews and articles—to bring long-silent voices to life in a deeply personal and fascinating exploration of a plan to create a Jewish state in Texas. The story’s ultimate question asks what it means to belong, and what can be salvaged from the past.

Jewish Book Festival: Melting Point by Rachel Cockerell
2025-11-09 19:00 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096

Jewish Book Festival: Exploring Global Jewish Cuisines: A Conversation with Beejhy Barhany & Margaret Boyle
2025-11-10 19:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
In conversation with Mark A. Goldberg, Associate Professor of History at the University of Houston
Beejhy Barhany
Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Born in Ethiopia and raised in Israel before moving to New York, chef Barhany’s cookbook celebrates Jewish diversity. From traditional recipes like doro wot to her own unique creations such as injera fish tacos, Gursha will have you craving more!
Margaret Boyle
Sabor Judio: The Jewish Mexican Cookbook
Fusing two culinary traditions, Jewish and Mexican, Boyle’s lavishly illustrated cookbook demonstrates how cooking and eating can connect us across places and generations. One hundred deeply personal recipes reflect the author’s pure joy and zest for life.
Supported by the Rosita and Albert Gaon Sephardic Heritage Program Endowment Fund
Community Partner: Congregation Beth Yeshurun

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Jewish Book Festival: Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
2025-11-11 12:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Book Lovers Lunch
When renowned painter Mira Novak dies mysteriously after a miscarriage in Bombay, her nurse Sona—entranced by Mira’s glamorous past—suddenly finds herself under suspicion. Left with four paintings and a cryptic note, Sona embarks on a journey across pre-war Europe to clear her name and uncover the truth. As she retraces Mira’s life, she begins to untangle the artist’s secrets and discovers her own sense of self. Inspired by the life of Amrita Sher-Gil, bestselling author Alka Joshi crafts a richly layered tale of identity, desire and the search for belonging.

Jewish Book Festival: Becoming Caitlin Clark by Howard Megdal
2025-11-12 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Becoming Caitlin Clark: The Unknown Origin Story of a Modern Basketball Superstar
Howard Megdal takes readers behind the scenes to reveal the little-known origins of a modern basketball superstar. From her early passion and fierce determination to the challenges that shaped her rise, this compelling narrative captures the making of a game-changing athlete. Megdal, a seasoned journalist with deep ties to Jewish culture, has contributed to The New York Times, The Washington Post and FiveThirtyEight. His sharp storytelling brings this inspiring journey to life for sports fans everywhere.
Patron Sponsors: Susan and Sandy Baum
Community Partners: Hebrew Order of David – Lodge Galil & Lodge Tikvah; Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Minette and Jerome Robinson Young Adult Division (YAD)

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Cooking for Health: Cowboy Caviar Tacos, Pumpkin Muffins & Almond Flour Cookies
2025-11-13 19:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Join nutritionist and chef Macy Diulus for a delicious, diabetes-friendly cooking class focused on blood sugar balance. You’ll learn to make fiber-rich cowboy caviar tacos, low-sugar pumpkin muffins and almond flour cookies—all designed to satisfy your cravings while supporting stable energy and better health. As part of her Cooking for Health series, Macy combines her nutrition expertise with flavorful, practical recipes that make healthy eating both enjoyable.
