Competition was fierce at last year’s Shesh Besh tournament, and players are already sharpening their skills and gearing up for this year’s matchups.
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of food, fun and community spirit as the Tampa JCCs & Federation hosts the “Celebrate Israel at 78!” Backyard BBQ on Sunday, April 26, at the Shanna & Bryan Glazer JCC located at 522 N. Howard Ave., Tampa. Gates open at 1 p.m. and the festivities run until 4 p.m.
This vibrant, community-wide celebration invites families, friends and neighbors to gather for a high-energy afternoon honoring Israel’s 78th Independence Day. From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and flavors of a festive Israeli style backyard gathering, complete with sizzling grills, lively entertainment and activities for all ages.
Food lovers can expect a true feast, with the aroma of classic barbecue favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers filling the air alongside crispy French fries and freshly grilled vegetables. Guests can explore authentic flavors at the Hummus Truck, serving falafel, hummus and Israeli salad or satisfy their sweet tooth at Crembo Bakery & Café with a variety of delicious treats. Refreshing options abound, from Kona Ice and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck to a fresh fruit stand and lemonada, while adult guests can enjoy drink stations offering spirits in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Artist Elisheva Avivi will be returning to create incredible masterpieces at the BBQ!
Beyond the food, the event transforms into a lively playground packed with activities designed to delight guests of all ages. Children can explore with a petting zoo, enjoy balloon animals and face painting, while adventure seekers tackle a mega obstacle course or bounce between the Tiny Zoo Playland and multi-sport inflatables. Classic backyard games like cornhole and frisbee are joined by crowd favorites such as giant yard pong and inflatable axe throwing, and friendly competition will take center stage during the Shesh Besh (backgammon) tournament. Guests can enhance their experience by pre-purchasing Thrill Zone wristbands for $10, allowing immediate access to games and attractions without waiting in line to enter.
Entertainment will be nonstop throughout the afternoon, with live DJs from Staar Entertainment setting the tone for an energetic celebration that includes interactive experiences like Kahoot! and Just Dance. Guests can experience an Israeli Shuk, featuring authentic products from ESEK, alongside local artisans in “Shop the Shuk,” a lively marketplace with Israeli imports and unique creations from local artisan vendors. Community organization booths and a hands-on craft corner offer opportunities for connection and creativity. The cultural experience continues with a special screening of Israeli-comedy “A Matter of Size” at 1:30 p.m., followed by a meaningful conversation with Lt. Col. Matan Levo Natan of the IDF, offering insight and perspective.
For added convenience, parking passes may be purchased in advance for $5 to guarantee on-site parking.
Event committee chair Mazi Goldenberg said, “There will be something for everyone — from incredible food and exciting entertainment to cultural experiences and community connection — this Backyard BBQ bash promises to be one of Tampa’s most memorable celebrations of the year.”
The afternoon is generously supported by the Tampa JCCs and Federation, The Gould Family and Hillsborough County.
For more information including artisan booths, community organization tables or purchasing parking passes and wristbands in advance, please visit: JewishTampa.com/IID or email brandy. gold@jewishtampa.com.