Budapest’s Zsilip Center is turning Friday evenings and Sunday mornings into a family ritual. At 1 Újpesti Embankment (Újpesti rakpart 1) in District 13, the two-level playhouse with a set of study rooms is hosting playful, hands-on programs where kids soak up Jewish traditions while parents dive into learning in the synagogue next door. It’s community learning, pint-sized Shabbat joy, and a lot of glue, glitter, stories, and songs under one roof.
Where and When
Events run through June 2026 at 1137 Budapest, 13th District, 1 Újpesti Embankment (Újpesti rakpart 1). Fridays bring Péntekecske, a mini Shabbat reception for kids paired with an adult learning session. Sundays relaunch the Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School (Zsiliputi Zsidó Vasárnapi Iskola), a beloved staple returning with a refreshed format and the same high-energy spirit.
Péntekecske: Mini Shabbat for Big Smiles
Mark the dates: June 5, June 12, and June 19, all Friday evenings. While adults gather in the synagogue to hear Rabbi Glitzi’s teaching, children settle into the Zsiliputi playhouse for a playful Shabbat welcome led by a madricha. Expect stories from the weekly Torah portion, the basics of Shabbat, and current holidays, all brought to life with pictures, interactive activities, and group games. The carrot at the end? Kids who listen well snag a small gift—and yes, there’s even a raffle. Bring the whole family and let everyone learn something new for Shabbat.
Sunday School Returns, Bigger and Brighter
The Sunday program is back at the Zsilip, refreshed and renamed as the Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School (Zsiliputi Zsidó Vasárnapi Iskola), running June 7, June 14, and June 21, 10:00–12:30. Hundreds of children who once spent their Sunday mornings here still talk about the memories—because the learning was always hidden inside the play. Now, the center’s two-story playhouse and multiple study rooms hum again with small-group sessions designed by a young, enthusiastic team.
What Kids Do on Sundays
Ages 4 to 14 are split by age group, so four-year-olds don’t compete with teens, and teens actually get to be teens. Together they:
– Prepare for upcoming holidays with crafts, songs, and stories.
– Explore mitzvot through hands-on projects and team challenges.
– Get comfortable with Jewish traditions in everyday life.
– Practice values meant to stick well beyond the classroom.
Whether you’re tiny or already a tween, on your way to being a teen leader or still before your Bar/Bat Mitzvah, the Sunday School has a spot that fits. It’s designed for you, full stop.
How It’s Run
Sessions are guided by madrichot and madrichim who blend structure with play, nudging kids to think, try, and talk it out. The Sunday morning arc uses age-appropriate pacing: welcome circle, interactive workshop, movement break, creative segment, and a wrap-up that reinforces what stuck. The Friday mini Shabbat mirrors the same rhythm—short, visual, and game-forward—so little ones stay engaged while adults learn with Rabbi Glitzi.
Why Families Love It
Parents get meaningful synagogue time; kids get a peer group and activities that feel like play while quietly building identity. Gifts and raffles sweeten Friday nights, but the repeat draw is the sense of belonging. The Zsilip’s layout—big play areas, dedicated study rooms, easy handoffs at the door—keeps the flow simple for families juggling siblings across ages.
Heads-Up and Contacts
Organizers reserve the right to change times or programs. More dates may be added as the calendar fills. For details or questions, look for the Zsilip Center’s contact links and phone line associated with 1137 Budapest, 13th District, 1 Újpesti Embankment (Újpesti rakpart 1). Follow their Facebook page for quick updates and announcements.
Bring the Whole Crew
Fridays: Péntekecske mini Shabbat in the playhouse for kids with a madricha, and learning with Rabbi Glitzi for adults in the synagogue. Sundays: Zsiliputi Jewish Sunday School, 10:00–12:30, ages 4–14. Come as a family, leave with songs in your head, glue on your hands, and traditions that feel like your own.
