The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is opening its doors in a whole new way with Second Sunday, a monthly Community Day inviting visitors to explore, create and connect under one roof.
Beginning Nov. 8, the museum will offer free admission on the second Sunday of every month, with a fresh theme, special activities, and something new to discover each time. Visitors can enjoy access to all exhibitions, including 'The First Salute: An Untold Story of the American Revolution' and 'Colors of Creation', along with a hands-on activity inspired by the day’s theme.
For those who prefer a relaxed visit, each Community Day will kick off with a Sensory-Friendly Morning from 9 to 11 a.m. featuring reduced lighting, sound, and motion throughout the museum.
The inaugural Second Sunday this weekend will specifically celebrate the Jewish Diaspora with a special focus on Sigd, an Ethiopian Jewish holiday honoring faith, community, renewal, and the historic connection between Ethiopian Jews and Jerusalem. While there, guests are encouraged to wear white, traditionally associated with the holiday, and get creative by making their own interpretations of traditional Ethiopian tapestries.
The celebration doesn't stop when the museum day ends either. That evening, the Weitzman will host a separate Secret Chord Concert featuring Ethiopian Israeli musician Gili Yalo. Blending Ethiopian musical roots with soul, funk, psychedelic sounds, and jazz, Yalo will sing in Amharic, Hebrew, and English.
Light bites begin at 6 p.m., with the concert kicking off at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance, $30 for Weitzman members, and $40 on the day of the show. Second Sunday visitors can also enjoy a special concert discount.
Later this winter, upcoming themes include Light & Joy on Dec. 13, Resolutions on Jan. 10 and Love Hurts on Feb. 14. The series will also feature Women in STEM on March 14, Passover & Freedom on April 11, JAHM & Mother’s Day on May 9, Pride on June 13, America250 on July 11, Summer Camp on Aug. 8 and Elul on Sept. 12.
The series is free and open to everyone. For more information on The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History (101 S Independence Mall E), visit theweitzman.org
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