"What's the Buzz?" Celebrates the Sweet Start of the High Holiday Season

Charlotte Jewish News, November 2024

By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist

Families with young children gathered on September 8 at Squirrel Lake Park for the “What’s the Buzz?” event, celebrating and preparing for Rosh HaShanah through interactive activities centered around bees and honey. Hosted through the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Center for Jewish Education’s PJ Library program, this mini-festival was the perfect way to buzz into the High Holiday season with a fun-filled afternoon of learning and play. The highlight of the day was a captivating honeybee demonstration by the beekeeper and owner of local Paddington Honey, Robert Suydan. Families had the unique opportunity to get up close with the hive, learn about the fascinating lives of honeybees, and, of course, sample some delicious honey! Children were buzzing with excitement as they asked questions and learned how bees make the sweet treat traditionally enjoyed during Rosh HaShanah celebrations.

In addition to the bee demo, kids got creative with a variety of crafts. They made honeybee hats, bookmarks, and even their own honeybee bottles to take home and use as a honey jar. Face painting added an artistic touch, and the park’s playground offered plenty of space for everyone to run and play. At the end of the event, High Holiday gift bags helped bring the spirit of the season home. Thank you to the following organizations who helped fill these bags with special gifts: Levine JCC, Charlotte Jewish Preschool, Jewish Preschool on Sardis, Charlotte Jewish Day School, Temple Beth El, Temple Israel, Jewish Council at Lake Norman, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte and PJ Library.

Rosh HaShanah, which marks the beginning of the Jewish new year, is a time for reflection, renewal, and wishing for a “sweet” new year ahead. “What’s the Buzz?” provided a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with the community and prepare for this meaningful holiday in a joyous and educational way.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us for ‘What’s the Buzz?’ It was wonderful to see so many families come together to celebrate and play together,” said Megan Harkavy, director of education and engagement. “We hope you’ll join us for our upcoming events. There’s always something exciting happening at PJ Library!”

PJ Library regularly hosts fun and engaging events, from holiday celebrations to weekly story times and more! With Megan Harkavy and Sara Solar, youth and family coordinator, leading the way, families can always look forward to meaningful and enriching experiences throughout the year.