There are a lot of things that make Yallah Israel special, but Shabbat is definitely one of them. After a week of traveling, exploring Israel, and making memories together, Shabbat gives everyone a chance to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate as one community. From Kabbalat Shabbat to singing after dinner, every week brings moments that remind us why Shabbat at Yallah is so unique.
We asked participants what makes Shabbat meaningful to them and what would make the “best Shabbos.”
For Micah, it’s the people who make all the difference. “The community makes the best Shabbat – to be here celebrating with friends.” No matter where we are in Israel, being together as one community is what makes every Shabbat memorable.
Rogero appreciates the chance to recharge. “One thing that makes Shabbat so great is that it’s restful, a good break from the week. Also, everyone is respectful and engaged in the service, making it very meaningful.” After a busy week on the road, Shabbat is a chance to catch our breath and enjoy being present with one another.
For Sammy, Yallah creates a unique Jewish environment. “What makes a good Shabbat for me is being surrounded by people who make me live within my Judaism. I also think just being in a spot that supports Judaism and where it thrives is important.” Spending Shabbat in Israel, surrounded by friends who are sharing the same experience, makes each week feel even more meaningful.
When it comes to creating the ultimate Shabbos, many had ideas.
AJ said, “When everybody is equally engaged, when people aren’t nodding off, Shabbat can be really fun.” The more everyone joins in, the more energy the whole community feels.
Izzy’s perfect Shabbat includes “dancing afterwards, song session, sweet mother, circle game, Or Zaroua.” Those moments after dinner, when everyone is singing and dancing together, often become the memories people talk about long after the trip ends.
Milo and Hannah M both want more “Israeli dancing.” Nothing brings a Yallah group together faster than learning dances together – even if not everyone knows the steps.
Roger has one simple request: “More challah, it’s tasty.” Fair enough!
Steven suggested “having a dance leader so that the dance is the same and not different,” making it easier for everyone to join in.
Reed hopes for “more well-known songs that people can bond over because we all know them.” Singing songs everyone recognizes is one of the easiest ways to get the whole room involved.
Jake would love “more free time to hang out, relax, sing, and play games together.” Sometimes the best part of Shabbat is just spending time with friends without worrying about the schedule.
Sammy added, “Good energetic songs with hand motions which bring a lot of fun energy into Shabbat.” The louder the singing and the bigger the smiles, the better.
And Sloane summed it up perfectly: “A lot of fun and action and energy, everyone participating and being involved in Shabbat.”
At the end of the day, everyone’s answers pointed back to the same thing: Shabbat at Yallah Israel isn’t just about where we are – it’s about who we’re with. Whether it’s meaningful services, singing around the table, Israeli dancing, extra challah, or simply relaxing together after a busy week, it’s the community that makes every Shabbat one to remember.
Here’s to many more Fridays filled with singing, dancing, laughter, and the kind of Shabbat that only Yallah Israel can create.
