September 2026 Interfaith Newsletter
September 30, 2026
Welcome to JInterfaith, a resource for interfaith couples and families throughout Jewish Atlanta.
Through JInterfaith, we hope to make Jewish life feel approachable, meaningful and welcoming, whether you grew up celebrating Jewish holidays, are experiencing them for the first time, or are figuring out together which traditions feel right for your family.
It feels especially fitting to begin with Sukkot, a holiday centered on gathering, hospitality and creating spaces of belonging.
A Season of Welcome
Sukkot may be one of Judaism’s most welcoming holidays. It invites us to step outside, gather with people we care about, share a meal and appreciate the people, places and experiences that help us feel at home.
If Sukkot is new to you, or if you and your partner are deciding how you want to celebrate it together, there is no “right” place to begin.
You don’t need to build a sukkah or know every tradition. You might invite someone over, eat a meal outside, visit a community sukkah or simply talk together about what makes each of you feel safe, grounded and grateful.
However you choose to participate, there is room for you.
With warmth,
Carla Birnbaum, Director of Community Engagement
Sarah Freeman, Interfaith Engagement Connector
Sukkot in 60 Seconds
Sukkot is a weeklong Jewish harvest festival centered on gratitude, hospitality and the temporary nature of life.
Many people celebrate by:
- Eating or gathering in a sukkah, a temporary outdoor structure traditionally built with at least three walls and a roof open enough to see the sky
- Welcoming friends, family and new people
- Shaking the lulav and etrog, traditional symbols of the holiday that are often associated with unity
- Spending time outdoors
- Reflecting on what makes us feel protected, connected and at home
You can participate in all, some or none of these traditions and still find a meaningful way to experience the holiday.
Try This at Home: What Makes a Home?
One of the easiest ways to bring the spirit of Sukkot into your home is simply to have a conversation.
Share a meal outside, on a patio or even near an open window, and ask each other:
- What traditions from your childhood made you feel at home?
- Which traditions would you like to bring into the life you are building together?
- Who has made you feel especially welcomed this year?
- Who might appreciate an invitation or extra connection right now?
- What are you grateful for in the home and community you share?
Sukkot can be an opportunity not only to explore Jewish traditions, but also to talk about the traditions, values and experiences each partner brings into your shared life.
Keep It Simple: Host a Casual Sukkot Gathering
Hospitality is at the heart of Sukkot, but gathering does not need to be complicated.
Invite another couple, family members or a few friends to join you for dinner, dessert, drinks or takeout outside.
Add one simple touch if you’d like:
- Ask everyone to bring something inspired by the fall harvest
- Hang string lights or paper decorations
- Invite each guest to share something they are grateful for
- Welcome someone who is new to the community
- Collect food or household items for a local organization
- End the evening by making plans to gather again
Sometimes the most meaningful traditions are the simplest ones.
A Taste of the Season
There are no specific foods that must be eaten on Sukkot, so meals often highlight seasonal produce and the abundance of the fall harvest.
For an easy option, create a build-your-own harvest board with apples, pears, grapes, figs, pomegranate seeds, honey, cheeses, crackers, nuts and something sweet.
A grazing board is also easy to customize for different dietary needs and family traditions.
Celebrate Sukkot Around Jewish Atlanta
You don’t have to celebrate on your own. Jewish communities throughout Atlanta offer opportunities to experience Sukkot together, and many warmly welcome interfaith couples and families.
Sukkot in the Wilderness with The Temple
Friday, October 2-Sunday, October 4
Skeenah Creek Campground and Mill
Spend the weekend in the mountains celebrating Sukkot in community. Come as you are, no prior Jewish knowledge is needed.
Register for Sukkot in the Wilderness
Dining Under the Stars: A Sukkot Shabbat Evening with Adamah ATL
Friday, October 2
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Decatur
Gather with friends for dinner in the sukkah while exploring the connections between Sukkot, Shabbat and the natural world. This gathering may be especially appealing for couples and adults looking for an approachable way to experience Sukkot in community.
Register for Dining Under the Stars
A Question We Hear Often
Can my partner participate in Sukkot traditions?
Absolutely.
Sukkot is deeply connected to hospitality and welcoming others. Partners of all backgrounds can eat in the sukkah, help decorate, participate in holiday activities and bring their own traditions and perspectives to the celebration.
Individual synagogues or communities may have different practices around certain ritual roles, so it is always okay to ask what to expect before attending.
If you are looking for a community where both partners can feel comfortable and included, JInterfaith can help.
Sometimes Belonging Begins With One Invitation
Sukkot reminds us that gathering is about more than spending time with people we already know.
Think about someone who may be new to Atlanta, new to the Jewish or interfaith community, or simply looking for connection. Consider inviting them to dinner, an event or even just a cup of coffee.
A small invitation can make a big difference.
Save the Date: JInterfaith Game Day
Our next JInterfaith Pop-Up is coming up on Sunday, November 8.
Join us for Game Day, an afternoon of mah jongg, favorite games and good company with residents of Berman Commons.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or completely new to the games, all ages and skill levels are welcome. Bring the family and enjoy an afternoon of connection and community.
More details are coming soon.
Connect With JInterfaith
JInterfaith brings interfaith couples and families together through welcoming gatherings, practical resources and honest conversations about building a meaningful life together.
Through JInterfaith, you can:
- Meet other interfaith couples and families
- Join welcoming community events
- Ask questions without judgment
- Explore Jewish traditions at your own pace
- Find opportunities throughout Jewish Atlanta
- Host a gathering of your own
You can also join our WhatsApp group to meet others, receive updates and stay connected between events.
Join the JInterfaith WhatsApp Group
However you celebrate, explore or connect, we hope JInterfaith can help you find a place within Jewish Atlanta that feels like home.