A bar mitzvah marks the moment when a Jewish child becomes responsible for observing Jewish law and tradition. The ceremony typically includes leading parts of the service and reading from the Torah. For Judah, it’s also a chance to celebrate this milestone with family and friends.

No problem at all. Prayer books include English translations, and much of the service is easy to follow along. Feel free to participate as much or as little as you’re comfortable with.

Morning Services & Kiddush Lunch

These events take place in the synagogue.

Men are encouraged to wear a suit, or slacks with a button-down shirt (with or without a tie); a polo shirt is also fine. Women are encouraged to dress modestly: dresses, skirts, top and pants, etc. Shoulders should be covered during the service.

Men will be offered a kippah (also called a yarmulke), a traditional head covering, at the door. Wearing one is customary but not required. Head coverings are not required for women. Tallit (prayer shawls) are also available for those who wish to wear one.

Evening Party

Think Fenway Park in Swampscott! Come wearing your favorite baseball-inspired apparel. Jerseys welcome!* No fan gear? No problem—smart casual attire is perfect.

*Except for the Yankees

Guests are asked to arrive at 9:30 AM in the lobby. The service will begin at 9:45 AM in the Sanctuary.

You may sit anywhere in the Sanctuary unless a row is marked reserved for family.

Expect the service to last about 2–2½ hours. Feel free to step out quietly if you need a break.

Photography and videography of any kind are not permitted during the service. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos at the Kiddush Lunch immediately following services and the Evening Party.

After Judah completes his Torah reading, guests will toss candy toward the bimah (the front of the sanctuary). It’s a sweet way of showering him with blessings and celebrating the moment.

The Hora is a traditional Jewish circle dance often performed at celebrations like weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs. Guests dance in circles while the guest of honor is lifted in a chair. It’s energetic, joyful, and a little chaotic—in the best way.

The Kiddush Lunch takes place immediately after morning services in the Social Hall, just outside the Sanctuary. Expect a classic Jewish spread: bagels, lox, egg, tuna, and whitefish salads, and more, with coffee, tea, and juice.

The Evening Party is a dessert reception—no dinner will be served. There will be plenty of sweet treats (and a few savory bites) inspired by Fenway Park favorites, along with water, fizzy beverages, coffee, and tea.

We've compiled a list of some of our favorite places to eat in the area: check them out here.

Click here to complete the RSVP form.

Reservations can be made by phone, online, or via the Marriott Bonvoy app. See the Hotel Room Block page for complete details. If the Room Block is full, here are other Area Hotels.

Swampscott is nestled in the heart of the North Shore. Check out the Things to Do & See page for ideas.