CSP: Israel Off the Beaten Path: Mate Yehuda
Embark on a captivating tour of Israel’s Mateh Yehuda region, a hidden gem that offers off-the-beaten-track destinations blending history, nature, and culture. Nestled in the lush Judean Hills, this enchanting region is home to serene visits to lesser-known monasteries, picturesque villages, and a flourishing wine scene. The region boasts authentic culinary experiences and a vibrant community of artisans and farmers who call this area home. You’ll uncover ancient archaeological treasures, from remnants of forgotten civilizations to ancient Roman roads and Byzantine-era churches. The scenic hiking trails and nature reserves further enhance the region’s untouched beauty, it appears that this region has it all, after this eye-opening tour, you might never bother going anywhere else in Israel! This journey through Mateh Yehuda reveals the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, offering a fresh and intimate perspective on Israel’s underrated destinations.
Sponsor: Orange County Jewish Community Scholar Program
Contact
Arie Katz
(949) 682-4040
arie@occsp.net
https://occsp.net/
Cost: $0.00
When: Sunday, August 17
From 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Zoom
Blood Drive at the JCC
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood is essential to help patients survive surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. This lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation. The need for blood is constant. Register and schedule your appointment to join JCC Cares in donating blood to help save a life!
When: Thursday, August 21
From 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Merage Jewish Community Center
1 Federation Way
Parking Lot
Irvine, CA 92603
Jewish Street Art Festival + Block Party @ the J
The Jewish Street Art Festival OC & All-Day Festival + Block Party @ the J
Because Jewish joy? It’s bigger than any wall.
Presented by Weissman Arts, a project of the Jewish Community Foundation Orange County, in collaboration with The Jewish Street Art Festival, Merage JCC and cultural partners across OC — we’re bringing bold color, big beats, and serious Jewish pride to the streets.
This spring and summer, Jewish artists from across the U.S. and Israel will throw down fresh murals at select spots throughout Orange County — repping our stories, resilience, and spirit in larger-than-life form.
Sponsor: Jewish Community Foundation Orange County (JCFOC) Weissman Arts, Jewish Street Art Festival, Merage JCC
Contact
Anne Hromadka
anne@jcfoc.org
https://jcfoc.org/weissman-arts/
When: Sunday, August 24
From 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Merage Jewish Community Center
1 Federation Way
Parking Lot
Irvine, CA 92603
Congregation Shir Ha-Ma’a lot- SHMoFTY Annual Bonfire
All 8th -12th Graders are invited to join our Annual SHMoFTY Bonfire! This event will give our teens an opportunity to meet and mingle with each other after a whole summer apart. This event is perfect for anyone who wants to check out SHMoFTY and understand the hype! We will be meeting at the beach for Dinner and Havdalah
For the rest of the evening our SHMoFTY Board will be providing space and programming for everyone to catch up and get to know any new faces.
This event costs $15 per person.
Please reach out to youthgroup@shmtemple.org with any questions.
When: Saturday, August 23, 2025
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: .The address will be sent to those registered closer to the event.