NORTHAMPTON, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - A local community is opening its doors in celebration of Passover to ensure everyone has a place to celebrate the ancient tradition. The Chabad of Northampton is hosting inclusive, communal Passover seders in the heart of downtown, and they say no one will be turned away. Western Mass News has more on how this event is bringing neighbors and students together.

In the heart of downtown Northampton, preparations are underway for a celebration that has been passed down for thousands of years. This Wednesday and Thursday, the Jewish community will gather for Passover Seders — communal meals filled with tradition, music, and history.

“So, tonight we begin a very, very special Jewish holiday. It’s called Passover. We are basically celebrating the fact that 3,338 years ago tonight, the Jewish people miraculously left Egypt,” said Rabbi Shmuel Kravitsky of the Chabad of Northampton.

The event features traditional foods like “Matzah”, a hand-baked flatbread and an Oppro. But the rabbi said the most important part isn’t the food, it’s the invitation. These Seders are meant to be a place where everyone feels welcome, from children to local residents, “the goal is to get the kids excited, to be able to also know that their job is to hold the torch to the next generation. It’s a very fun time, there’s a lot going on.”

The rabbi said the holiday is ultimately about three things: joy, faith, and hope. He hopes that by coming together, the community can bring a little extra light to the world.

Wednesday’s celebration starts at 8 p.m. and Thursday’s will be at 9 p.m., a donation of $36 is suggested if you do attend.

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