KlezFest is set to be the biggest and best one yet! This will not be your typical KlezFest, said Event Coordinator Alec Erlebacher, but a transformed music and food festival, as a number of exciting additions are planned for this event that the community has come to love.

As the only kosher Jewish festival in upstate New York, the entire community is invited to the celebration on Sept. 15 from 12 to 4 p.m at the JCC. Delicious food, fun games and activities, and lively music will be the highlights of this event designed to uplift the community and introduce newcomers to Jewish culture.

“I want KlezFest to give people a taste of Jewish culture and allow them to explore any questions or curiosities in a safe environment,” said Erlebacher. “I hope this event appeals to both Jewish people and those in the broader community, and that we can all feel welcomed to attend and embrace the fantastic food and music we have to offer.”

He added that some of the desire to revamp this event was due to the rise in antisemitic incidents across the country. “I want KlezFest to counteract the hate so many have experienced and be a space for peace, unity, and celebration.”

Attendees can enjoy the weather as the talented Emmy award-winning songwriter and music producer Hughie Stone-Fish emcee’s the festivities. The electrifying musical lineup will feature a variety of artists with Daniella Rabbani and Dan Nadel of The Klezmers headlining the event. Challah, latkes, matzah ball soup, rugelach, and other classic kosher Jewish foods will be on the new expansive menu this year!

Those up for some friendly competitions can sign up for the kugel bake-off, and participate in a blind taste test between Half-Moon and Black & White cookies. “I really hope this brings the community together so please spread the word to encourage others to attend,” Erlebacher added. “If you or someone you know is curious about Jewish cuisine & culture, this will be upstate New York’s ‘Jewish event of the year’ where everyone is welcomed!”

We encourage anyone interested in participating in the kugel bake-off to arrive no later than 12:30pm. All entries must be received by 12:45pm and the bake-off will begin at 1pm.

To stay up to date on KlezFest, follow us at facebook.com/KlezfestCNY or reach out to [email protected] with any questions.