An Evening with Jeffrey Seller

Thursday, August 21, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join Tony Award-winning producer Jeffrey Seller as he discusses his new memoir, Theatre Kid. A heartfelt, humorous story of growing up as a passionate young theater lover and finding his way to Broadway. In conversation with Barry Edelstein, Seller reflects on identity, ambition, and the experiences that shaped his journey from suburban outsider to theatrical powerhouse.

Price:
VIP Reception and includes a copy of the book: Premium Seat: $88 | JCC Member Premium Seat $72
One Seat with the Book: $56 | JCC Member $45
Two Seats with the Book: $67 | JCC Member $56

An Evening with Jeffrey Seller Add to Cart

The Spice Detective

Sunday, August 24, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join Chef Yaniv, the Spice Detective, for a flavorful event exploring Middle Eastern spices. Participate in a hands on cooking demo, enjoy a live Q&A, and listen to stories revealing the vibrant world of Israeli flavors. Learn spice tips, health benefits, and culinary secrets. Perfect for food lovers and curious cooks of all levels!

Price: $42 | JCC Members: $36

The Spice Detective Add to Cart

The Vav Band presents: A Tribute to Paul Simon

Tuesday, August 26, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

The Vav band is Congregation Beth El’s 13-piece band comprised of congregants and led by musical director Craig Parks. Each year, they present a concert honoring Jewish artists and their cultural influence. This year features Paul Simon’s music both Simon and Garfunkel and solo hits. Join us at the JCC for an unforgettable, high-energy celebration!

Price: Complimentary

The Vav Band presents: A Tribute to Paul Simon Add to Cart

Treasures of the Jewish Music

Thursdays, September 4, October 30, December 18, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Thursdays, February 19, April 16, & June 4, 2026 |2:00 PM
Astor Judaica Library
Lawrence Family JCC

Step into the rich tapestry of Jewish musical heritage with. Eileen Wingard and a community of music aficionados as they showcase and appreciate iconic musical gems from the Astor Judaica Library’s Jewish music collection.

September 4: Great Jewish Violinists
October 30: Great Jewish Cellists
December 18: Great Jewish Pianists
February 19: Great Jewish Conductors
April 16: Music for Tu B'Shvat
June 4: Music for Yom Yerushalayim

Price: Complimentary

Great Jewish Violinists: Sept. 4th Add to Cart

Great Jewish Cellists: Oct. 30th Add to Cart

Great Jewish Pianists: Dec. 18th Add to Cart

Hen Mazzig, author of The Wrong Kind of Jew, In Conversation with Roni Kuban

Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust and presented in partnership with the Murray Galinson San Diego Israel Initiative Join Hen Mazzig—activist, author, and founder of Mizrahi Heritage Month—for a powerful discussion on Jewish identity, inclusion, and antisemitism. A leading voice for Mizrahi Jews, Mazzig’s work reaches millions through viral campaigns and impactful storytelling. Don’t miss this chance to hear insights from his acclaimed book, The Wrong Kind of Jew, and his global advocacy. Hen will be joined in conversation by Roni Kuban, currently an MGSDII visiting professor at SDSU for Fall 2025 and renowned Israeli journalist, director, playwright and documentarian.

Price:
Premium Seating: $52 | JCC Member $45 GA Seating: $42 | JCC Member $36

Hen Mazzig, author of The Wrong Kind of Jew, In Conversation with Roni Kuban Add to Cart

An Evening with Dennis Ross, author of Statecraft 2.0

Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an evening with Ambassador Dennis Ross, veteran U.S. diplomat and expert in Middle East policy. Discuss his new book, Statecraft 2.0, which explores how America can lead in a multipolar world. Gain insights on global challenges from Iran to China. A book signing will follow this timely, thought-provoking conversation.

Price:
Tier 1: Includes Statecraft 2.0, Meet & Greet, and Premium Seating: $88 | JCC Members: $72
Tier 2: Ticket Including a copy of Statecraft 2.0: $50 | JCC Members: $45
Tier 3: Ticket without Book: $25 | JCC Members: $20

An Evening with Dennis Ross, author of Statecraft 2.0 Add to Cart

Violinist Asi Matathias

Thursday, September 11, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Violinist Asi Matathias, a prodigious talent, debuted at 14 with the Israel Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta. Celebrated for his maturity and artistry, he has performed at Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonie, and internationally, collaborating with renowned conductors like Yoel Levi and Eliahu Inbal, establishing himself as one of his generation’s leading violinists across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Price: Complimentary

Violinist Asi Matathias Add to Cart

Roots & Recipes: An Intergenerational Cooking Experience

Sunday, September 14, October 12 & November 15, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Over the course of three holiday-themed sessions, grandparents and grandchildren will bond over shared memories and culinary stories while creating their own family cookbook. Guided by food educator Natan Lapin, each session includes hands-on cooking activities that teach simple kitchen techniques and spark meaningful conversations across generations. Participants will receive a cooking kit with ingredients and tools, plus a custom recipe box or cookbook to collect family favorites.

This program is presented in partnership with and generously sponsored by Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego

Participating grandchildren must be between the ages of 8 and 11. Each ticket includes admission for one (1) grandparent and up to two (2) grandchildren.

Additional participants may be added for an extra fee.

Price: $118 | JCC Members: $98
Additional participants: $50 each *This program is sold as a 3-session package - there is no option to purchase individual sessions

Roots & Recipes: An Intergenerational Cooking Experience Add to Cart

Additional Participant Add to Cart

Professor Jacob Goldberg Virtual Lecture

Monday, September 15, 2025 | 10:00 AM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a lecture series with Professor Jacob Goldberg, Harvard-educated expert and former senior advisor to Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Explore Israeli and Middle Eastern politics, Arab-Israeli and U.S.-Israeli relations, and global diplomacy. Gain rare insights into the region’s challenges and strategies from one of Israel’s most respected political minds.

Link to the Virtual Lecture will be sent via email prior to the event.

Price: $20| JCC Member $18

Professor Jacob Goldberg Virtual Lecture Add to Cart

Gabe Fleisher, Author of Daily Political Newsletter: Wake Up to Politics

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

This program is generously sponsored by Hanna and Mark Gleiberman

Join us for an exciting event with Gabe Fleisher, Gen Z journalist and founder of Wake Up To Politics. Gabe will present key political insights, followed by a dynamic discussion on today’s political climate. Don’t miss this chance to hear from a nationally recognized voice who’s reshaping political journalism for a new generation.

Price: $24 | JCC Member $22 | Student $20

Gabe Fleisher, Author of Daily Political Newsletter: Wake Up to Politics Add to Cart

Max Haymer: A Dazzling Tribute to Jewish Jazz Legends

Sunday, October 5, 2025 | 3:30 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an unforgettable night with acclaimed jazz pianist Max Haymer! Known for his electrifying performances and dynamic style, Max brings his unique blend of jazz mastery and passionate expression to the stage. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this evening promises incredible artistry, soulful melodies, and an inspiring musical experience.

Price: $24 | JCC Member $22

Max Haymer: A Dazzling Tribute to Jewish Jazz Legends Add to Cart

A Letter to David

Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 7:00 pm
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

On October 7th, David Cunio was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz and taken to Gaza, where he remains in captivity. In this deeply personal cinematic letter, filmmaker Tom Shoval revisits his award-winning debut Youth — in which David and his brother Eitan played the lead roles — to craft a haunting meditation on memory, loss, and brotherhood. Through raw footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and audition tapes, Shoval weaves a layered reflection on the bond between art and life, and on a past that now feels impossibly distant. Without showing the events of October 7th, A Letter to David bears quiet but powerful witness to the unimaginable — and to the enduring presence of those who are missing.

Complimentary

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A Letter to David

From Page to Plate: Jake Cohen’s Dinner Party Animal

Sunday, October 12, 2025 | 4:30 PM
Coastal Roots Farm

Just in time for the release of his new cookbook Dinner Party Animal, two-time New York Times bestselling author and host of Jake Makes It Easy, Jake Cohen joins us for a lively afternoon. Enjoy a fun, flavorful night with a live cooking demo, audience Q&A, and book signing. Dinner Party Animal celebrates food, joy, and gathering, come for the flavor, stay for the vibes.

Price Includes One Book:
Single Ticket: $44 | JCC Member $38
Couple Tickets: $50 | JCC Member $44

From Page to Plate: Jake Cohen’s Dinner Party Animal Add to Cart

3-PACK JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn & Pamela Nadell

Yardena Schwartz - Thursday, October 16th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Dara Horn - Saturday, October 18th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
Pamela Nadell - Monday, November 17th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for all three events as part of our Jewish Author Series and enjoy these dynamic programs featuring Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn, and Pamela Nadell. This series highlights powerful Jewish voices exploring history, identity, and storytelling. One convenient ticket grants access to the full lineup of thought-provoking conversations and unforgettable evenings with acclaimed authors.

Price:
3-Pack GA Ticket (includes one copy of Ghosts of a Holy War and Antisemitism, An American Tradition): $115 | JCC Member $98

3-Pack Premium Ticket (includes Meet & Greet with Dara Horn, Premium Seating for Dara Horn event, and one copy of Ghosts of a Holy War, People Love Dead Jews, and Antisemitism, An American Tradition): $155 | JCC Member $130

3-PACK JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Dara Horn & Pamela Nadell Add to Cart

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Author of Ghosts of a Holy War

Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust Yardena Schwartz, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author, has written for The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and TIME. Her book Ghosts of a Holy War explores the 1929 Palestine massacre through a Memphis family’s attic discovery. Join her for a compelling discussion on Israel, American journalism’s evolution, political shifts, and more.

Price:
With Book: $42 | JCC Member $36
Without Book: $25 | JCC Member $20

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Yardena Schwartz, Author of Ghosts of a Holy War Add to Cart

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Dara Horn, Author of People Love Dead Jews

Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 3:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust and co-sponsored by Jewish Federation of San Diego Join acclaimed author and scholar Dara Horn for a compelling conversation on Jewish memory, identity, and culture. With numerous awards and powerful works like People Love Dead Jews, Dara explores how public fascination with Jewish tragedy often overshadows vibrant Jewish life. Dara will be joined in conversation by Vlad Khaykin, Executive Vice President of Social Impact and Partnerships at the Simon Wiesenthal Center, as they engage in a timely discussion on literature, antisemitism, and the complexities of historical representation.

Price:
Premium (includes meet & greet, premium seating and copy of People Love Dead Jews):
$88 | JCC Member $72
General Admission: $42 | JCC Member $36

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Dara Horn, Author of People Love Dead Jews Add to Cart

Traveler's Prayer: Performed by The Braid

Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 3:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a powerful evening with The Braid, the award-winning Jewish story company. Through captivating performances of true stories, The Braid brings to life diverse voices and experiences from the Jewish community. Funny, poignant, and deeply human, this unique theatrical event blends storytelling and culture for a night that will entertain, inspire, and resonate long after.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

Traveler's Prayer: Performed by The Braid Add to Cart

The Joyce Short Film Series

Tuesday, October 25, 2025 | 4:00 pm
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Joyce's Short Film Series is part of the annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival year-round programming at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center/Center for Jewish Culture and throughout San Diego County. Showcasing short films from around the world.

Prices: Complimentary

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The Joyce Short Film Series

The Property | SDIJFF midseason film screening

Thursday, October 25, 2025 | 7:00 pm
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Regina and her granddaughter Mika embark on a journey to Poland to reclaim their family property seized during World War II. But their quest quickly unravels.

Prices: $20.00 | LFJCC Member: $17.00

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The Property | SDIJFF midseason film screening

The Joyce Short Film Series

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 4:00 pm
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Joyce's Short Film Series is part of the annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival year-round programming at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center/Center for Jewish Culture and throughout San Diego County. Showcasing short films from around the world.

Prices: Complimentary

Learn More

The Joyce Short Film Series

The Ring

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 7:00 pm
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Arnon Noble (Adir Miller) is a devout man with a deep devotion to his mother (Tiki Dayan), a Hungarian Holocaust survivor. Together, they visit schools where she shares the harrowing story of how she saved both her infant son and herself during the war—with the help of a thin gold ring.

Prices: $20 | LFJCC Member: $17

Learn More

The Ring Add to Cart

JEWISH POETS-JEWISH VOICES: The Magic of Spoken Word

Tuesdays, November 11, 2025, January 13, March 10 & May 19, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Celebrate the 19th season of Jewish Poets-Jewish Voices! Experience an enriching evening as three talented local poets, handpicked by the JP-JV committee, share their compelling presentations. Following their performances, indulge in a half hour of open mic, where you're invited to share your own voice. Join us for a captivating night filled with spoken word and moments of introspection.

Price: Complimentary

November 11th Add to Cart

January 13th Add to Cart

March 10th Add to Cart

May 19th Add to Cart

Sarah Aroeste in Concert

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Congregation Beth El

Join us for an intimate evening with Sarah Aroeste, a trailblazing artist revitalizing Ladino, the Judeo-Spanish language of Sephardic Jews. Through vibrant performances and original music blending Sephardic tradition with rock, jazz, and funk, she connects generations and brings Ladino to life for today’s audiences. Experience her unique, captivating sound and cultural passion live.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

Sarah Aroeste in Concert Add to Cart

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Pamela Nadell, Author of Antisemitism, An American Tradition

Monday, November 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Programming generously supported by the Maury and Lillian Novak Trust Join us for an insightful evening with Pamela Nadell, renowned historian and author specializing in American Jewish history and antisemitism. Winner of the National Jewish Book Award, Nadell shares powerful stories and expert analysis. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from a leading scholar shaping the understanding of Jewish heritage and contemporary challenges.

Price Includes One Book:
Single Ticket: $42 | JCC Member $36
Couple Tickets: $48 | JCC Member $42

JEWISH AUTHOR SERIES:
Pamela Nadell, Author of Antisemitism, An American Tradition Add to Cart

Day of American Mah Jongg with Michele Frizzell

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a fun-filled day of American Mah Jongg with expert Michele Frizzell! Learn tips to boost your game, enjoy live play, and meet fellow enthusiasts. With decades of experience and over 46,000 YouTube fans, Michele’s clear teaching and passion make this a can't-miss event. Bring your set, table mat, and friends—or meet new ones!

Price: $62 | JCC Member $47

Day of American Mah Jongg with Michele Frizzell Add to Cart

A Jewish December 25th Tradition: Kosher Chinese Food and A Classic Film

Thursday, December 25, 2025 | Dinner 6:00 PM | Film 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Enjoy a cozy evening filled with kosher Chinese cuisine and a screening of a timeless classic film. This over 100-year-old tradition, rooted in the Jewish American experience, brings people together through shared meals and meaningful moments. Join us for a warm, inclusive celebration of community, culture, and connection.

Price: $56 | JCC Membership $45

A Jewish December 25th Tradition: Kosher Chinese Food and A Classic Film Add to Cart

Shalomaland: A Walking Tour of San Diego's Jewish History

Thursdays, | 10:30 am
Various Locations Around San Diego

Back by popular demand, Shalomaland returns for a second season to explore San Diego's rich Jewish history! Guided by scholar Dr. Joellyn Zollman, we will journey to key Jewish sites across the city, revealing the resonant, layered history of Jewish life in San Diego. From San Diego pioneer Louis Rose to the visionary Jonas Salk, this four-session class will reveal the vibrant Jewish legacy embedded in our fine city.

Louis Rose Point at Liberty Station, Point Loma
Thursday, January 22, 2026 | 10:30am-12:00pm

Joellyn takes us on a journey of Louis Rose and his contributions to San Diego with a walking tour of the former naval training center Liberty Station. Starting at Louis Rose point, a plaque dedicated to Louis Rose - first Jewish pioneer developer of San Diego - we will walk around the park as Joellyn shares Rose's lasting impact on America's Finest City.

Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park in Old Town
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 10:30am-12:00pm

Continuing the tour of San Diego's acclaimed Jewish historical sites, we make our way to Temple Beth Israel, located in Old Town. During this session, Joellyn will share the history of San Diego's first synagogue and the role it has played in the city's Jewish past, present and future.

Ohr Shalom Synagogue and Banker’s Hill
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 10:30am-12:00pm

After visiting Temple Beth Israel, San Diego’s first synagogue, in our previous session, we now journey to the site of the congregation’s second home - Ohr Shalom Synagogue. Along the way, we’ll explore the Banker’s Hill neighborhood and understand what life was like for downtown San Diego’s Jewish community on the other side of World War II.

Exploring La Jolla through the eyes of Jonas Salk, Louis Kahn, and Roger Revelle
Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 10:30am-12:00pm

For this final class session, we will highlight three Jewish innovators who left an indelible mark on San Diego - Jonas Salk, Louis Kahn and Roger Revelle. In this journey in around the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, we will explore how Salk, Kahn and Revelle influenced the North County region as we know it today and how their significant impact is felt far beyond the Jewish community.


DISCLAIMER:Please note that this class requires a minimum enrollment in order to proceed. If this minimum enrollment is not met, the class will be cancelled. In the event of a cancellation, all enrolled students will be notified and will receive a full refund or the option to credit their registration fee to a future event. Additionally, as many of these sessions take place outside, in the case of poor and/or unsafe weather conditions, sessions will be rescheduled as needed. In the case of a session needing to be rescheduled, you will be given the option to move your registration to the new class date, credit your registration fee to a future event, or receive a refund

Price:
Individual Classes: $30 | JCC Members: $25
4-Class Bundle: $100 | JCC Members: $80

Shalomaland: 4-Class Bundle Add to Cart

Shalomaland: January 22 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: February 19 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: March 19 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: April 16 Add to Cart

Gideon Bernstein, Author of Giving: A Handbook to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist

Thursday, February 26, 2026 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Presented In Partnership with Jewish Community Foundation

After the heartbreaking loss of his son, Gideon Bernstein discovered the power of generosity to heal and inspire. His book, Giving: A Handbook to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist, combines personal stories, science, and practical tips to help readers find purpose through giving. A seasoned financial expert, Bernstein offers a heartfelt guide to making a meaningful difference.

Price Includes a Copy of Giving: $36 | JCC Member $30

Gideon Bernstein, Author of Giving: A Handbook to Happiness for the Modern Philanthropist Add to Cart

Moses, Freud, and the Buddha: Paths to Mindfulness and Mental Wellness

Tuesdays March 10, 17 & 24, 2026 | 10:00 am
Lawerance Family JCC

This course led by clinical psychologist and meditation teacher Dr. Oded Shezifi explores mindfulness as a pillar of modern mental wellness, tracing its roots from Freud’s early psychotherapy to ancient Buddhist meditation and Jewish spiritual teachings. Through lectures, discussion, and experiential practice, participants will engage with diverse traditions that support reflective, mindful living.

DISCLAIMER:Please note that this class requires a minimum enrollment in order to proceed. If this minimum enrollment is not met, the class will be cancelled. In the event of a cancellation, all enrolled students will be notified and will receive a full refund or the option to credit their registration fee to a future event.

Price: $45 | JCC Members: $36

Moses, Freud, and the Buddha: Paths to Mindfulness and Mental Wellness Add to Cart

Professor Jacob Goldberg Lecture Series

Monday, March 16 - 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a captivating lecture series on Israeli and Middle Eastern politics with Professor Jacob Goldberg, Harvard-educated expert and former advisor to Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Explore Arab-Israeli and American-Israeli relations, global diplomacy, and regional challenges. Gain rare insights into Israel’s strategic landscape from one of its leading political thinkers.

Price:
3-Pack: $120| JCC Member $83
By the Day: $42 | JCC Member $36

Professor Jacob Goldberg Lecture Series: 3-Pack Add to Cart

Professor Jacob Goldberg Lecture: March 16th Add to Cart

Professor Jacob Goldberg Lecture: March 17th Add to Cart

Professor Jacob Goldberg Lecture: March 18th Add to Cart

Brunch & Briefing with Professor Goldberg

Friday, March 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for an exclusive brunch and intimate conversation with Professor Jacob Goldberg, a foremost expert on Middle Eastern politics and former advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Building on his recent lecture series, Professor Goldberg will offer timely insights into Israel’s political landscape and international dynamics. Come with your questions for a thought-provoking debrief and engaging dialogue in a relaxed setting. Brunch will be provided.

Price: $90 | JCC Member $72

Brunch & Briefing with Professor Goldberg Add to Cart