Houston JCC

J Centerstage: Matilda JR. - performed by elementary students
2025-12-14 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-12-15 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-12-16 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
About the show:
Clever Matilda Wormwood is unappreciated by her shallow family, But when she attends an unusual school, she finds a new ally, teacher Miss Honey, and a fearsome foe, headmistress Miss Trunchbull. Handily, our heroine has some special powers! Matilda learns to use her wit, courage, and determination to stand up for herself and those around her.
This production features many talented elementary school performers from our community in three separate casts:

Cast A will perform: Saturday, December 13 at 7:00 PM and Sunday, December 14 at 6:00 PM
Cast B will perform: Sunday, December 14 at 1:00 PM and Monday, December 15 at 6:00 PM
Cast C will perform: Sunday, December 14 at 3:30 PM and Tuesday, December 16 at 6:00 PM

Running time: An hour and a half, including a 15-minute intermission.

Candle Lighting at the J
2025-12-15 17:00 | Samuels Pavilion
This is Where You Shine!
Join us for candle lighting and celebrate Hanukkah with the J community!
Kidszone, an awesome after-school experience for Kinder to Grade 5, helps make the kids at the J shine every day and will be the hosts for this night of candle lighting.

Candle Lighting at the J
2025-12-16 17:00 | Samuels Pavilion
This is Where You Shine!
Join us for candle lighting and celebrate Hanukkah with the J community!
Meals on Wheels, a program that provides meals to local seniors and makes their day shine, will be the hosts for this night of candle lighting.
Come a little earlier at 3:30 PM to participate in Hanukkah Sparkle and Shine Necklaces!

Talking about Israel
2025-12-16 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.

Candle Lighting at the J
2025-12-17 17:00 | Samuels Pavilion
This is Where You Shine!
Join us for candle lighting and celebrate Hanukkah with the J community!
Theater, a program where our students transform into performers and shine on stage, will be the host for this night of candle lighting.
Come a little earlier at 3:30 PM to participate in Create a Dreidel Sweet Enough to Eat!

"Try the JETS" Swim Team Day
2025-12-17 18:00 - 19:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Unsure if the JETS is for you? Sign up for “Try the JETS” Swim Team Day!
Sunday, December 14 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM or Wednesday, December 17 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Experience a real swim team practice with our brand-new JETS Swim Team! This free session is perfect for young swimmers who want to see what being on a team is like before joining.
What to expect:
– A fun, structured practice led by our J swim coaches.
– Technique drills, teamwork, and an introduction to swim team culture.
– A chance to meet other swimmers and learn about joining the JETS!
Who can attend: Swimmers ages 5-21 interested in joining the JETS Swim Team and able to swim at least 25 yards Freestyle & Backstroke.

Bingo Night at the J!
2025-12-17 19:00 | Herzstein Foundation Multipurpose Room
Feeling lucky? Join your friends and neighbors for a fun, adult-only evening of some good old fashioned Bingo. Bring your wine, party food and Bingo game face. Every participant will receive a Bingo card packet that includes three cards for each of the 10 games. Additional cards can be purchased at the door.
Food will be available to purchase at Laykie’s Cafe before 7:00 PM.
Doors Open 6:45 PM | Games begin 7:00 PM

Candle Lighting at the J
2025-12-18 17:00 | Samuels Pavilion
This is Where You Shine!
Join us for candle lighting and celebrate Hanukkah with the J community!
The Adult 60+ programming that shines a light on the J’s senior community, will be the host for this night of candle lighting.
Come a little earlier at 3:30 PM to participate in Exploring the Light You Hold Inside with Art That Shines!

Blood Drive
2025-12-18 17:00 - 20:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Drive benefits the Gulf Coast Blood.
This drive is co-hosted by JCC and the Galil Chapter of Hebrew Order of David.

Open Gym & Tot Shabbat
2025-12-19 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.

Candle Lighting at the J
2025-12-19 17:00 | Samuels Pavilion
This is Where You Shine!
Join us for candle lighting and celebrate Hanukkah with the J community!
This night of candle lighting honors CEO Joel Dinkin and is sponsored by the Bertha Alyce Early Childhood School.
Come a little earlier at 3:30 PM to participate in Exploring the Light You Hold Inside with Art That Shines!

Latkes on the Lawn: This is Where You Shine
2025-12-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at the Latkes on the Lawn! The J’s annual Hanukkah celebration will be filled with creative ways to explore the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Hanukkah. Discover the many ways you and your family shine at the our art and light explorations and enjoy more fun activities including a photobooth, games, DJ and Dancing, lawn activities, sufganiot and, of course, latkes!
Sponsored by the Radoff Family.

Winter Break Camp
2025-12-22 09:00 - 15:30 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Kinder to Grade 2: Winter Olympics
Go for the gold! Campers participate in Olympic-themed games, relays and friendly competitions that celebrate teamwork, sportsmanship and winter fun—no ice required. Medal ceremonies and frosty challenges make this a day to remember.
Grades 3 – 6: Best of Houston: Urban Air
Bounce into adventure with an unforgettable day at Urban Air!
PM Care is available for ages 5 – 12: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Grades 1 – 6: Tennis Camp
Location: Evelyn Rubenstein JCC (Please note this is a different location than the other winter break camps, which are being held at the Merfish Teen Center.)
No PM Care

Serve up some fun this break! Campers will learn tennis fundamentals like forehand, backhand, volleys and serves through age-appropriate drills, games and friendly matches. Our coaches focus on building skills, teamwork and confidence while keeping it active and exciting. Whether your child is picking up a racket for the first time or already loves the game, Tennis Camp is the perfect match!

Winter Break Camp
2025-12-23 09:00 - 15:30 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Kinder to Grade 2: Summer in December
Bring the beach to winter! Campers enjoy sun-soaked fun with tropical-themed games, summer treats and sunny surprises, all while enjoying the warmth of creative activities. (Flip-flops are optional.)
Grades 3-6: Best of Houston: Ice Skating
Glide into winter fun! We’re heading to the ice rink for a day of skating, laughter and memories!
PM Care is available for ages 5 – 12: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Grades 1 – 6: Tennis Camp
Location: Evelyn Rubenstein JCC (Please note this is a different location than the other winter break camps, which are being held at the Merfish Teen Center.)
No PM Care
Serve up some fun this break! Campers will learn tennis fundamentals like forehand, backhand, volleys and serves through age-appropriate drills, games and friendly matches. Our coaches focus on building skills, teamwork and confidence while keeping it active and exciting. Whether your child is picking up a racket for the first time or already loves the game, Tennis Camp is the perfect match!

Winter Break Camp
2025-12-29 09:00 - 15:30 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Kinder to Grade 2: Winter Wonderland
Enter a world of winter magic! Campers explore snowy-themed games, frosty crafts and festive challenges that spark imagination, creativity and teamwork—no matter the weather outside.
Grades 3-6: Best of Houston: Cidercade
Level up your winter break with a trip to Cidercade for a day packed with arcade games, friendly competition and non-stop fun!
PM Care is available for ages 5 – 12: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Grades 1 – 6: Tennis Camp
Location: Evelyn Rubenstein JCC (Please note this is a different location than the other winter break camps, which are being held at the Merfish Teen Center.)
No PM Care
Serve up some fun this break! Campers will learn tennis fundamentals like forehand, backhand, volleys and serves through age-appropriate drills, games and friendly matches. Our coaches focus on building skills, teamwork and confidence while keeping it active and exciting. Whether your child is picking up a racket for the first time or already loves the game, Tennis Camp is the perfect match!

Winter Break Camp
2025-12-30 09:00 - 15:30 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Kinder to Grade 2: New Year’s Bash
Celebrate in style! Campers ring in the New Year with lively games, hands-on crafts and festive activities. Countdown challenges, party-themed projects and nonstop energy make this day full of fun and friendship.
Grades 3-6: Best of Houston: Top Golf
Get ready to tee off at a fun day at TopGolf!
PM Care is available for ages 5 -12: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM.

Grades 1 – 6: Tennis Camp
Location: Evelyn Rubenstein JCC (Please note this is a different location than the other winter break camps, which are being held at the Merfish Teen Center.)
No PM Care
Serve up some fun this break! Campers will learn tennis fundamentals like forehand, backhand, volleys and serves through age-appropriate drills, games and friendly matches. Our coaches focus on building skills, teamwork and confidence while keeping it active and exciting. Whether your child is picking up a racket for the first time or already loves the game, Tennis Camp is the perfect match!

Penguin Plunge
2026-01-04 14:00 - 16:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Join us for a pool party penguin style! We will be opening all the pools for a splashing good time. For all your inner penguins we will not be heating the water for the two seasonal pools. So, take your plunge down the slide into the chilly water, enjoy the fun games and prizes, poolside music, hot cocoa, snacks and plunge like a penguin!

School's Out Camp
2026-01-05 09:00 - 15:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Kinder – Grade 2: Back to School Bonanza Camp!
Kick off the new year with excitement! Campers enjoy a carnival of games, team challenges and creative projects, plus prizes and surprises that spark laughter and confidence. It’s a high-energy day with friends to get ready for school.
Grades 3 – 6: Best of Houston: SlooMoo
This camp is heading to SlooMoo for a day of color, creativity and sensory fun!
No PM Care.

Safe Sitter Babysitter Training Class
2026-01-05 09:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Do you have a teen in grades 6, 7 or 8? Make sure they are ready for anything that comes their way. Sign them up for the J’s upcoming Safe Sitter class on January 5, 2026.
Register early as classes fill quickly!

Bites of Israel: Street Food Edition
2026-01-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Join Shlicha Shir Benjamin for Bites of Israel: Street Food Edition, where you’ll explore the bold and vibrant flavors of Israeli cuisine. The menu features crispy falafel with fries, fresh Israeli salad, creamy hummus and a crunchy white cabbage salad, all inspired by the tastes of Israel’s bustling markets.

Cooking for Health: Quick & Balanced: 30-Minute Meals
2026-01-11 15:00 - 17:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Tex Mex Quinoa Bowls and Creamy Italian Pesto Pasta Bake
Join nutritionist Chef Macy Diulus for Quick & Balanced: 30-Minute Meals, a class designed to nourish your body and fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. You’ll cook up flavorful Tex-Mex quinoa bowls and a creamy Italian pesto pasta bake—wholesome, satisfying dishes ready in no time.

Bites of Israel: From the Shuk Edition
2026-01-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Join Chef Yotam Dolev, executive chef of Hamsa and Októ, as he brings the vibrant flavors of Israel to his new class, Bites from Israel: From the Shuk. Learn to craft the ultimate sabich sandwich—a warm pita stacked with fried eggplant, potatoes, eggs and creamy tahini—paired with crisp, tangy homemade pickles for the perfect bite.

Mezuzah Making Workshop
2026-01-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Join us for a creative, hands-on workshop led by OLA ART. You’ll design and craft your own mezuzah using colorful epoxy resin.
Discover the beauty and meaning behind this timeless Jewish tradition while creating a modern, one-of-a-kind piece to take home. No experience is needed!
Room 202A

HC68: Urban Air
2026-01-17 20:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Get ready for some high-flying fun at Urban Air Adventure Park. Enjoy trampolines, go-karts, climbing walls and more!
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. Monthly events will feature a wide variety of positive experiences designed to help bridge the gap between pre and post Bar/Bat Mitzvah and high school programs. HC68 allows middle school students to begin to understand the privileges and obligations of being a member of a community.

School's Out Camp
2026-01-19 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! Sign up your kids for a day filled with activities, fun and games!
More details to follow soon.

JCC Houston Maccabi 30th Reunion
2026-01-24 19:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Join us to celebrate 30 years of JCC Houston Maccabi! Alumni, sponsors, athletes, coaches and friends of Houston Maccabi are invited for a celebratory evening with drinks, dessert, memorabilia and more!
For 30 years, the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC has sent thousands of Jewish teens to experience the magic of the JCC Maccabi Games. This week-long Olympic style event is filled with athletic competition, creativity, inclusion, community service and camaraderie all while participants explore their Jewish identity and engagement.
Whether you were a teen athlete, served as a coach or were involved with the 6-times we hosted the Games in our community… you are part of our Houston Maccabi legacy!
Please note this event is for adults aged 21+ only.
Dress code: Maccabi Chic and sneakers
Event Co-chairs: Lenny Dubin and Debbie Kaplan

Theatre: The Life and Times of A. Einstein
2026-01-24 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Written and Starring: Kres Mersky
Directed by Paul Gersten
This delightful play presents a day in the life of Einstein as seen through the eyes of his secretary. The scene is Princeton, New Jersey, 1934. It is Einstein’s birthday, and a group of journalists has gathered in his living room to interview him at his home as he turns 55. As usual, Einstein is late, and his devoted secretary, Ellen, stalls by fielding questions, placating, and humoring the reporters, explaining his theories—all the while, attempting to keep the chaotic household running smoothly.

Teens in the Kitchen: Vintage Cake Decorating
2026-01-25 14:00 - 16:00 | 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 our expert pastry chef. In this hands-on class, you’ll refine vintage techniques like delicate piping, elegant borders and charming floral designs—perfect for creating show-stopping cakes with timeless appeal. Whether you joined us last time or are new to the craft, this encore session offers fresh inspiration, skill-building and plenty of creative fun.
Join us for Teens in the Kitchen, our brand-new cooking series for ages 13-18. Whether you’re a total beginner or a confident home cook, these classes are designed just for teens to build skills, explore global cuisines and have fun in the kitchen with friends.
Classes are open to everyone at a special reduced rate, making it easier than ever to get cooking at the J. Teens in the Kitchen is an initiative supported by a grant from the Houston Jewish Community Foundation.
