More than 1,000 Jewish students, faculty, alumni and community members gathered April 1 at the University of Florida\u2019s O\u2019Connell Center for what organizers said was the largest single\u2011seated Passover Seder in the United States.<\/p>\n
Hosted by the Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center, the event aimed to ensure that no Jewish student at UF observed Passover alone.<\/p>\n
More than 1,000 attend Passover Seder on UF campus<\/p>\n
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Worshipers wash their hands during the Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center’s Gator Seder at Exactech Arena in Gainesville, FL, on Wednesday, April 1 2026. More then 1,000 Jewish students and community members attended the Passover ceremony.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is more than a Seder \u2014 it\u2019s a powerful statement of Jewish pride, unity, and resilience,\u201d said Rabbi Berl Goldman, director of Chabad UF, in a press release before the event. \u201cAt a time when Jewish students are seeking connection and strength, we are creating a space where they can celebrate their identity together with joy and meaning.\u201d<\/p>\n
Doors opened shortly after 5 p.m., followed by a full traditional Seder that included hand\u2011made shmurah matzah, the four cups of wine, the retelling of the Exodus from Egypt and a kosher\u2011for\u2011Passover meal featuring brisket and other traditional foods.<\/p>\n
University leadership, along with state and local elected officials and community dignitaries, attended the event to show support for UF\u2019s Jewish student community.<\/p>\n