Celebrating Passover

by Cecily Kellogg

April 06, 2009

It's that time of year again -- time to break out the gefilte fish and the matzohs. The story behind Passover is a grisly and powerful one; in the book of Exodus the story is told of ten plagues being inflicted on the Egyptians, but the Jews were told to mark their doors with the blood of a spring lamb so God in his vengeance would "pass over" those homes, sparing the Jews.

While many families gather for this sacred holiday in their own homes, luckily Philadelphia offers a variety of interesting events that can deepen the experience. First of all, if you aren't interested in cooking, there are two excellent family-friendly restaurants offering Seder dinners; Alison Two in Fort Washington (chocolate covered matzoh, oh my!) and Zahav in Center City. Save yourself the dishes and help the (somewhat ailing) restaurant industry in our city.

While the family is gathered, consider heading outside to enjoy the beautiful spring weather by visiting some local gardens and arboretums or other fun spring spots!

I'm afraid I don't celebrate Passover so I don't have any other great suggestions to help celebrate; most of the local Jewish Community Centers in the area are closed for the holiday and of course the National Museum of Jewish History is still under construction in Center City, so I got no ideas from those folks.

Maybe you could share with me your favorite Passover Traditions with your family. I'd love to know more!

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