Queerkeit Writer’s Retreat

Queerkeit Incubators is a network of queer Jewish writing groups where participants connect, collaborate, and create the kind of art and content they wish they’d had access to on their journeys. This retreat will bring together current participants in the 2026 Queerkeit Cohorts to build community and share their work. If you are interested in future participation and fellowship opportunities, reach out to contact@queerkeit.com. 

Though participants’ practices vary, shared programming will be traditionally Shabbat observant and all food kosher certified. Learn more about Queerkeit at https://queerkeit.com/Home.

Please note that this retreat is currently at capacity, but you are welcome to apply for a spot on our waitlist using the form linked below.

Educator: Jane Tuv

Lanterns, kintsugi, mandalas, ponchiki, and so much more: join Russian-speaking Jews from across the East Coast for a Chanukkah arts retreat! Through a weekend jam-packed with visual art, cooking, and storytelling through movement and improv theater, we’ll explore themes of identity, memory, resilience, and renewal in Jewish texts, traditions, and in our own lives. Using art as our pathway, we’ll reflect on what we’ve inherited – and what we want to carry forward. Get ready to discover new creative inspiration, great people, and what makes your RSJ experience uniquely your own.

The food served at this retreat will be fully kosher certified. While some activities may not align with Shabbat observance, alternative programming will be available for Shabbat-observant participants.

Educators: Abbey London and Tivnu

Celebrate the magic of New York City during one of its most joyful seasons on this direct service retreat, held in partnership with Tivnu. As we welcome Shabbat – and the first night of Chanukkah! – we’ll learn about the rich history of Jewish life in New York while enjoying delicious food, classic New York activities, and soaking up the incredible energy of the city! It’s the perfect time to make a difference for local communities through hands-on service with organizations that address food insecurity and access, and learn with them about the impacts of hostile infrastructure on the city today. Along the way, we’ll explore how Jewish immigrants brought their identities to New York and how Judaism inspires us to spread light and generosity – all year long.

A note on lodging: The retreat will be held in a Hostel. We will have two rooms with 16 beds, one for male-identifying participants and one for female-identifying participants. If you are local to NYC, you are expected to stay at the Hostel for the duration of the experience. If you have any questions regarding the lodging, please reach out to Retreats@memglobal.org.

This retreat is generously subsidized by Repair the World. In addition, this retreat will not be Shabbat observant, and the meals will be vegetarian but not kosher certified.