YORK, Pa. — York County’s Temple Beth Israel hosted its first-ever Family Fun Festival, which was described as a fun-filled extravaganza with more than twenty local vendors and food trucks; with the ongoing Israeli conflict, many members of the Jewish community say the festival couldn’t have come at a better time.
According to event organizers, the chilly weather wasn’t going to deter York County residents from coming out and celebrating their community as one.
“It’s important that we are not huddling in fear. We are strongly out in support of our faith, our community and Israel,” said Rabbi Melody Davis from Temple Beth Israel.
The Family Fun Festival made it a point to extend its arms to people of all faiths and show that it was safe for attendees to leave their worries at home.
“There’s so much that we carry, and to put that burden down sometimes is a blessing,” Davis said.
Guests could shop from an array of vendors or sit down with their families to enjoy live music.
Desserts made by members of the temple could also be purchased by attendees, with all money raised going towards the temple and its services.
For members like Lee Smotkin, the day represented what peace could be.
“We can all come together, work together and be one,” Smotkin said.
Among the vendors and music was a lesson; Davis expressed to FOX43 how she hoped the day demonstrated the importance of inclusivity and tolerance in the face of adversity.
“Humanity is what’s important and we show our humanity by supporting one another,” Davis said.
While the festival was intended for everyone, there was one group that Davis felt was a necessity to reach.
“With the little ones, that’s where you have to start," Davis began. "Education is absolutely paramount because, with that, we can truly build a world of peace.".
“I think it’s wonderful that we all understand each other’s faith and getting together as a community is very important,” Smotkin added.
Festival organizers hope to make the festival an annual event moving forward.