What to check out at ‘Winter at the Weitzman’

December marks the start of Winter at the Weitzman, and with it comes a slew of events at the cultural institution. 

What this seasonal activation brings to the Weitzman is ways to foster unity and understanding through the power of shared stories. And as a release states, the museum welcomes people of all ages and beliefs to join in this season of reflection and celebration of the American Jewish experience. One way to do that is through the special exhibition, “The Future Will Follow the Past: An Exhibition by Jonathan Horowitz”.

Featuring commentary on pressing issues facing America today, the exhibit is currently on view daily at The Weitzman, which is open every day between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Event-wise, the museum is also offering a few stand-alone occasions. On Tuesday Dec. 5, the Weitzman Book Club will focus on ‘Jews, Lakota, and an American Inheritance.’ While there, author Rebecca Claren will discuss her new book ‘The Cost of Free Land: Jews, Lakota and an American Inheritance’ with activist and award-winning actor and star of the FX series ‘Reservation Dogs’ Sarah Podemski.

This weekend (Saturday, Dec. 9) however will hold the Museum’s Hannukah Concert with the “high-energy” Klezmer band, Michael Winograd & the Honorable Mentshn. Internationally recognized clarinetist Michael Winograd and his band will be joined by the Berlin-based Yiddish songstress Sasha Lurje as well, the release states.

Winter at the Weitzman will continue next week with another rendition of its Book Club, this time with the theme of ‘Boston Chocolate Party.’ While there, bestselling author Rabbi Deborah Prinz will explore “the fascinating intersection of Jews in the chocolate trade, the American quest for independence, and Hanukkah’s freedom message”, while covering her two books ‘The Boston Chocolate Party’ and ‘On the Chocolate Trail.’ This event is also meant to have Philadelphians discover unique ways to celebrate Hanukkah 2023, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of The Boston Tea Party.

Then on Saturday, Dec. 16, the 30th Anniversary Screening of ‘Schindler’s List’ will be in full swing at the museum, and while there, viewers can commemorate Steven Spielberg’s Academy Award-winning feature with Philadelphia Jewish Film and Media and The Weitzman as they share this story on the big screen to “remind us that one person can make a difference even in the darkest of times.”

The final event for Winter at the Weitzman will take place on Christmas Day, Dec. 25. Titled ‘Being ___ At Christmas’ this annual all-day family party is open to everyone and anyone. 

As the release finishes, while there, visitors of all ages can participate in immersive activities, music workshops, dance performances, crafts, and watch some movies. The museum’s galleries are open all day and performances and workshops include children’s music group “Ants on a Log,” the Philly Suns Lion Dancers, the Bible Players, Movemakers Philly, and more.

To learn about everything going on at The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History (101 S Independence Mall E) this winter, visit theweitzman.org