Nestled at Újpesti rakpart 1, 1137 Budapest in the 13th district, Zsilip Community Center is the spot to drop by for anyone curious about Jewish culture. It’s a welcoming hangout for all ages and backgrounds, packed with exciting programs that make connecting to Jewish traditions feel easy and fun. Think kosher café serving bagels, live music, theater shows, in-depth study sessions, and a playhouse for kids. Whether you’re new to it all or a longtime enthusiast, Zsilip puts getting to know Jewish heritage front and center.
Havruta: House of Joint Learning
Kicking off on April 1, 2026 (Wednesday), Havruta – Együtt Tanulás Háza (House of Joint Learning) is back for its third smash-hit year. Running Mondays and Wednesdays with two-hour blocks each time, this isn’t your dry academic stuff – for Jews, learning is a core aspect of our worldview, woven into our values and daily life. It’s all about community; Judaism thrives on the shared energy that unites us all. Modeled after yeshivas, small groups dive deep together, pondering ancient wisdom. This game-changing study circle opens Zsilip’s doors to every knowledge-hungry community member.
Wednesday schedule: 5:30 p.m. – The Era of the Messiah: philosophy and halacha with Rabbi Baruch Oberlander. 6:30 p.m. – The Book of Mitzvot: the 613 commandments with Rabbi Yonatan Megyeri.
It continues on Wednesdays, April 8, 15, and 22.
Monday Havruta Sessions
Mondays bring their own flavor starting April 6, 2026: 6:30 p.m. – On the weekly Torah portion with Rabbi Samuel Glitzenstein. 7:30 p.m. – Women’s Role in Judaism with Rebbetzin Sarah Nógrádi. These sessions recur on April 13 and 20, keeping the joint learning momentum going strong.
Péntekecske: Fun Friday Evenings
Every Friday evening turns into a mini Shabbat welcome at Zsiliputi playhouse, starting April 3, 2026. While adults catch Rabbi Glici (aka Glitzi or Glitzenstein)’s teachings in the synagogue, kids get playful sessions led by a madricha (youth counselor). They dive into the weekly Torah portion, Shabbat, current holidays – all with pictures and games galore. Pay attention and score gifts, plus there’s a raffle! Whole families are invited to learn and celebrate in Shabbat style. Dates: April 3, 10, 17, 24.
Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School
Sundays light up with the revamped Zsiliputi Zsidó Vasárnapi Iskola (Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School), launching April 5, 2026. Hundreds of kids who spent Sunday mornings here still rave years later about the games and playful learning. Now back in the two-story playhouse and center packed with study rooms, a young, enthusiastic team hosts 4- to 14-year-olds (including tweens) from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Age-group activities cover prepping for holidays together, mitzvot lessons, introductions to traditions, and lifelong values. Whether you’re a little one, budding teen, or pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah age, this Sunday school is tailor-made for you. Runs April 5, 12, 19, and 26.
From cozy café hangouts to deep dives and kid-friendly adventures, Zsilip’s 2026 lineup at Újpesti rakpart 1 keeps the Jewish spirit alive and kicking in Budapest. Mark your calendars – these weekly staples promise community, knowledge, and joy for everyone. No barriers, just open doors to heritage.
