NORTH COUNTY LECTURE SERIES KICKOFF: The Holocaust Litigations: Defining Guilt, Extracting Reparations

Monday, November 9, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Carlsbad City Library | Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium
1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011

Kick off the 2026-27 North County Lecture Series with William Lerach, a leading U.S. securities lawyer who was among a small group of American attorneys who, decades after the Holocaust, exposed the widespread complicity of major Swiss banks and German corporations in the economic exploitation of European Jews. In this lecture, Lerach discusses the landmark litigation that recovered stolen property worth several billion dollars and sought long-overdue restitution (Wiedergutmachung). His career has also included high-profile human rights cases on behalf of laborers in Saipan’s garment factories, American WWII POWs forced to work in Japanese weapons factories, and Holocaust victims. A member of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, Lerach is a recipient of the University of Pittsburgh’s prestigious Legacy Laureate Award.

Price: Complimentary

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NORTH COUNTY LECTURE SERIES: Democracy & Decency, Debate & Diversity

Monday, January 1, 2027 | 10:30 AM
Carlsbad City Library | Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium
1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011

In our 2nd to last lecture of the 2026-27 North County Lecture Series, we join Rabbi Ron Shulman of Congregation Beth El for a thoughtful reflection on Jewish sources that address the intersection of democratic values and social responsibility in a pluralistic society. Can we respect those with whom we disagree and disagree with those whom we love?

Price: Complimentary

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Conversational Spanish

Weekly on Mondays | November 9 - December 28 | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Lawrence Family JCC

Explore Hispanic culture through literature, history, music, politics, economics, arts, current events, and more from Latin America and Spain. Each session features a unique topic while helping students expand Spanish vocabulary, strengthen cultural knowledge, and practice advanced grammar, including preterite vs. imperfect and present/past subjunctive. Students will engage with readings, discussions, and presentations to enhance fluency.

New students: please use this Link

Price: $185 | JCC Member Price: $155
*Security fee will be applied at checkout

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.

Conversational Spanish Add to Cart

Intermediate Spanish III

Weekly on Mondays | November 9 - December 28 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Lawrence Family JCC

Develop confidence in handling complex conversations and sociocultural situations, including elaborating, complimenting, and apologizing. Students will practice understanding main ideas and details across a variety of topics while improving listening, speaking, and writing skills. Through discussions and written activities, students will build the ability to communicate in connected discourse, write social correspondence, and express ideas across multiple paragraphs.

New students: please use this Link

Price: $185 | JCC Member Price: $155
*Security fee will be applied at checkout

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.

Intermediate Spanish III Add to Cart

Beginners Spanish III

Weekly on Tuesdays | November 10 - December 29 | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Lawrence Family JCC

Students will be able to talk about their near future, confidently express real live activities. Will use pronouns to replace information that is already known by the speaker and listener. By the end of this course students should be able to talk about daily life activities with an ample vocabulary, make comparisons and communicate daily experiences.

New students: please use this Link

Price: $185 | JCC Member Price: $155
*Security fee will be applied at checkout

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.

Beginners Spanish III Add to Cart

Beginners Spanish I

Weekly on Tuesdays | November 10 - December 29 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Lawrence Family JCC

Designed to provide students with a solid foundation of the Spanish language, this course will focus on daily greetings and basic conversation. Tailored to students with little or no background in Spanish. Take your first step towards Spanish fluency!

New students: please use this Link

Price: $185 | JCC Member Price: $155
*Security fee will be applied at checkout

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.

Beginners Spanish I Add to Cart

Celebrate America with Sol and Amit

Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an inspiring evening of music featuring Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin alongside beloved Jewish masterworks including Bruch’s Kol Nidre and a moving contemporary piece on the Holocaust by acclaimed composer Sharon Farber. Performed by internationally acclaimed artists Solomon Eichner, an eminent pianist, avid chamber musician and graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and Peabody Conservatory, and renowned cellist, conductor, and educator Amit Peled, this special concert honors the richness of America’s cultural and musical legacy.

*This concert is complimentary for veterans and active service members

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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

Thursdays, November 12, December 10, 2026, January 14 & February 18,2027| 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Various locations around San Diego

Now in its third season, Shalomaland continues its exploration of the rich and layered history of Jewish life in San Diego. Guided by treasured educator and history Dr. Joellyn Zollman, this four-session series journeys through key Jewish sites across the city, bringing to life the stories, people, and places that helped shape San Diego’s Jewish community - from pioneer Louis Rose to visionary Jonas Salk and beyond.

November 12: Louis Rose Point at Liberty Station, Point Loma
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.

December 10: Temple Beth Israel at Heritage Park in Old Town
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.

January 14: Ohr Shalom Synagogue, Balboa Park, and Banker’s Hill
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.

February 18: Jews as Insiders, Outsiders and Innovators in La Jolla
For this final class session, we will explore the establishment of Jewish life in La Jolla and North County, starting in the mid 20th century and taking us all the way to the present day. Throughout this journey of key sites in and around La Jolla, we will highlight Jonas Salk and Roger Revelle and come to understand the indelible mark they left on San Diego and the ways in which their significant impact is felt by the Jewish community and beyond.

DISCLAIMER: This class requires a minimum enrollment. If the minimum is not met, the class will be canceled. Registered participants will be notified and receive a full refund or the option to apply their payment as a credit toward a future event.

Price:
Individual Classes: $32 | JCC Members: $26
4-Class Bundle: $103 | JCC Members: $82

Shalomaland: Nov 12 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: Dec 10 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: Jan 14 Add to Cart

Shalomaland: Feb 18 Add to Cart

BEEJHY BARHANY : Restaurant Owner and Author of Gursha

Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Beejhy Barhany, owner of Tsion Cafe and author of the Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond, joins us to honor Sigd with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a traditional ritual of hospitality in which green coffee beans are roasted, ground, and brewed fresh in front of guests, often accompanied by incense and shared conversation. It is a deeply social and symbolic practice that honors community, respect, and connection through the act of preparing and drinking coffee together. Through conversation and storytelling, Beejhy will share reflections on heritage, migration, resilience, and community drawn from her experiences. Beejhy brings warmth, humor, and powerful insight into the rich traditions of Ethiopian Jewish life and the journeys that shape identity across generations and continents.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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The Wizard of Oz

Presented by JCompany Youth Theatre
November 7 - 15, 2026
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Join Dorothy and Toto as they follow the Yellow Brick Road through Oz to the Emerald City, meeting witches, Munchkins, and unforgettable friends along the way: a Scarecrow seeking wisdom, a Tin Man searching for heart, and a Lion hoping for courage. This timeless adventure celebrates friendship, hope, and discovering the strength within.

Price: $26 | JCC Member $22 | Day of Show $30
Group Price 10% off 10 or More

Saturday, November 14 | 7:30 PM Add to Cart

Sunday, November 15 | 2:00 PM Add to Cart

DAY OF AMERICAN MAH JONGG WITH MICHELE FRIZZELL

Mondays, November 16, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Lawrence Family JCC

Join us for a fun-filled day of American Mah Jongg with Michele Frizzell, renowned instructor, author of the American Mah Jongg Primer series, and YouTube Mah Jongg star with over 46,000 subscribers. Michele will be in San Diego to share expert tips to boost your game, followed by an opportunity to play alongside her. Known for her clear teaching style and passion for the game, Michele brings decades of experience and contagious enthusiasm. After lunch, she’ll visit tables to chat and play, so bring your set, table mat, and friends, or come ready to meet new ones!

Price: $64 | JCC Member $48

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JEWISH POETS-JEWISH VOICES: The Magic of Spoken Word

Tuesdays | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Celebrate the 19th season of Jewish Poets-Jewish Voices! One program will be devoted to two Jewish Poets of the Past. During the other three programs, 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.

Nov 17
Jewish Poets of the Past: Malka Tussman, Ukrainian-born American Yiddish Poet, Haim Hefer, Polish-born Israeli songwriter. Their poetry and songs will be performed in English translation and the original language. The Ohr Shalom Choir, under the direction of Elisheva Edelson, will participate in the program.

Jan 12
Featuring three local poets, followed by a half hour of open mic. Open mic topic, nature, in honor of Tu B'Shvat.

Mar 9
Three local poets, open mic

Apr 6
Three local poets, open mic

Price: Complimentary

November 17 Add to Cart

January 12 Add to Cart

March 9 Add to Cart

April 6 Add to Cart

MANDELBAUM FAMILY LECTURE SERIES KICKOFF: Sleep In the Bible: Nothing New Under the Sun

Wednesday, November 18, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Coronado Public Library | Winn Room
640 Orange Ave | Coronado, CA 92118

Trouble sleeping and sleep disorders are very common. With such a large number of the population at risk today, one wonders which sleep complaints were common before modern discoveries of these disorders. What did our forefathers and foremothers have to say about sleep? How did the Bible and Talmud conceptualize sleep and the problems associated with it? In our kickoff to the 2026-27 Mandelbaum Family Lecture Series, we're joined by Dr. Sonial Israel to explore how understanding the classic texts may help us better interpret what we know today, put into perspective how far we have come and clarify what questions we might still need to ask..

Price: Complimentary

MANDELBAUM FAMILY LECTURE SERIES KICKOFF: Sleep In the Bible: Nothing New Under the Sun Add to Cart

EAST COUNTY LECTURE SERIES: Heritage of Sound: A Listening Session

Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Tifereth Israel Synagogue
6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd, San Diego, CA 92119

What sounds, rhythms, and voices laid the groundwork for the music we identify today as Black music and Jewish music? Multidisciplinary artist and Yiddish cultural scholar Anthony Russell leads an interactive sonic journey through the parallel soundscapes of the African and Jewish diasporas. Drawing on his own exploration of Ashkenazi Jewish musical traditions and African American musical history - including his acclaimed collaboration with klezmer ensemble Veretski Pass - Russell explores the intersections, influences, and shared experiences embedded in these rich musical traditions. Through listening, storytelling, and discussion, discover how music can illuminate histories of migration, identity, resilience, and cultural exchange.

These programs are presented in partnership with Tifereth Israel Synagogue

Price: Complimentary

EAST COUNTY LECTURE SERIES: Heritage of Sound: A Listening Session Add to Cart

TREASURES OF THE JEWISH MUSIC COLLECTION EXPLORE THE MUSIC OF THE ASTOR JUDAICA LIBRARY

Thursdays | 2:00 PM - 3:30 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.

The 2026-27 season will feature six complimentary programs of music by Jewish-born Classical Composers.

October 29, 2026:
Composers from Russia's Jewish Folksong Society. Guest: Ph.D candidate, Ilana Shapiro

December 3, 2026:
French-Jewish Composers, Meyerbeer, Halevy, Alkan, Milhaud. Guest: Paris-born David Gmach

February 25, 2027:
Composers Gustav Mahler, Friedrich Gernsheim. Guest: Pianist Enrique Lombroso

April 15, 2027:
Composers Arnold Schoenberg, Ernest Bloch. Guest, Conductor David Amos

May 13, 2027:
Composers Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Lukas Foss. Guest: Michael Buczazer

Price: Complimentary

December 3 Add to Cart

February 25 Add to Cart

April 15 Add to Cart

May 13 Add to Cart

THE VAV BAND PRESENTS: CELEBRATING JEWISH VOCALISTS

Tuesday, December 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

The Vav Band, Congregation Beth El's 13-piece ensemble led by Musical Director Craig Parks, celebrates the musical contributions of Jewish artists to popular music. Following their acclaimed JCC debut last year with atribute to Paul Simon, Vav returns with a dynamic concert spanning the 1960s through the 2000s, featuring iconic songs made famous by Jewish vocalists. From beloved hits to hidden gems, this energetic performance blends a wide range of musical styles into one unforgettable evening. If you love great music and great times, then don't miss this one-night-only performance!

Price: $5 | JCC Member Complimentary

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MANDELBAUM FAMILY LECTURE SERIES: "And You Shall Be a Blessing": Celebrating the Life and Music of Debbie Friedman

Wednesday, January 20, 2027 | 10:30 AM
Coronado Public Library | Winn Room
640 Orange Ave | Coronado, CA 92118

A deep passion for Judaism, song, and prayer propelled Debbie Friedman z”l to transform Jewish liturgical music, bringing vitality and accessibility to prayers that had long been formal and traditional. Over five decades, hundreds of her original folk-infused melodies have inspired generations of worshippers and influenced new generations of liturgical composers. Join us for the continuation of the 2026-27 Mandelbaum Family Lecture Series, along with Rabbi-Cantor Cheri Weiss and pianist Diane Benaroya as they honor Friedman’s enduring legacy through discussion and song, exploring her revolutionary approach to Jewish prayer and music.

Price: Complimentary

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JANE EISNER Author of Carole King: She Made the Earth Move

Thursday, March 11, 2027 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

An evening with Jane Eisner explores her acclaimed biography, Carole King: She Made the Earth Move, and the in-depth research behind capturing the life and legacy of one of music’s most iconic singer-songwriters. The program will feature live performance by local musician Heather Nation, including beloved songs from Tapestry and other Carole King classics. Stay for an engaging blend of music and conversation celebrating the artistry, influence, and enduring impact of an extraordinary artist.

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

JANE EISNER Author of Carole King: She Made the Earth Move Add to Cart

SUSAN POLGAR : Chess Grandmaster

Sunday, March 21, 2027 | 3:00 PM
Congregation Beth Am | 5050 Del Mar Heights Rd | San Diego, CA 92130

Susan joins us to reflect on her extraordinary journey growing up in the Eastern Bloc, breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of competitive chess, and the personal stories behind her acclaimed memoir: Rebel Queen. The evening will also feature a thrilling simultaneous chess exhibition, where audience members brave enough to challenge a legend can test their skills against her in real time. Bring your chess board, your curiosity, and your best strategy for a night of conversation, competition, and inspiration.

This event is presented in partnership with Congregation Beth Am.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30 | Congregation Beth Am $30

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RODGER KAMENETZ : Exploring the JuBu Phenomenon

Thusday, March 25, 2027 | 7:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

Acclaimed author and poet Rodger Kamenetz, whose groundbreaking book The Jew in the Lotus helped define the "JuBu" (Jewish-Buddhist) phenomenon, joins us for a fascinating exploration of the Jewish-Buddhist dialogue and the remarkable questions posed by the Dalai Lama. How did the Jewish people preserve their spiritual traditions through nearly 2,000 years of exile? And why have so many Jews been drawn to Buddhist meditation? Through stories, insights, and discussion, Kamenetz examines the rich exchange between these two spiritual traditions and its continuing relevance today.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

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COUNTING OUR BLESSINGS: A WORKSHOP WITH RODGER KAMENETZ

Friday, March 26, 2027 | 10:00 AM
Lawrence Family JCC

Drawing on his latest book, Seeing into the Life of Things, Rodger Kamenetz explores how to meet an age of constant reactivity shaped by social media, news, and politics. Building on the Dalai Lama’s teaching about “afflictive states of mind,” he turns to Jewish practice as a grounded response to anger, anxiety, and overwhelm.

In this interactive workshop, he introduces accessible tools for transforming reactivity and returning to balance, focusing on the Jewish morning practice of gratitude. Participants will learn how to recognize, cherish, and visualize daily blessings as a source of strength, clarity, and resilience in challenging times.

Price: $23 | JCC Member $18

COUNTING OUR BLESSINGS: A WORKSHOP WITH RODGER KAMENETZ Add to Cart

Bret Stephens: Editor-in-Chief of Online Publication Sapir

Saturday, April 3, 2027 | 8:00 PM
Lawrence Family JCC

The San Diego Center for Jewish Culture presents an evening with Bret Stephens, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and Editor-in-Chief of SAPIR. In this timely conversation, Stephens will explore the future of Jewish thought leadership, philanthropy, communal giving, and the role each of us can play in shaping a vibrant Jewish future.

The conversation continues the following day with Z3@SAN, a day of Jewish learning inspired by SAPIR. Through facilitated discussions, diverse perspectives, and meaningful dialogue, participants will explore big ideas and the issues shaping Jewish life today.

Join us for one or both programs and be part of this dynamic two-day experience of conversation, connection, and Jewish learning.

More details about Z3@SAN are coming soon!

Price:
Premium/VIP: $150 | JCC Member: $100
General Admission: $45 | JCC Member: $36

Bret Stephens: Editor-in-Chief of Online Publication Sapir Add to Cart

VIOLINIST ASI MATATHIAS: Featuring Cellist Nahar Eliaz and Pianist Matthew Graybil

Tuesday, April 20, 2027 | 7:00 PM
David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre
Lawrence Family JCC

Back by popular demand, violinist Asi Matathias returns alongside cellist Nahar Eliaz and pianist Matthew Graybil for an extraordinary evening of chamber music. Known for his expressive tone, technical mastery, and profound musical sensitivity, Matathias has captivated audiences around the world. He made his debut at age 14 with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and has since performed internationally as a celebrated soloist and chamber musician.

Performing on a rare 1695 Antonio Stradivari violin, Matathias and his distinguished collaborators will present a program filled with passion, artistry, and musical brilliance.

Price: $36 | JCC Member $30

VIOLINIST ASI MATATHIAS: Featuring Cellist Nahar Eliaz and Pianist Matthew Graybil Add to Cart