Educators: Noya and Zohar Achiasaf

***This retreat is currently at capacity, but you can use the form linked below to apply for our waitlist.***

Educator: Rabbi Shari Shamah

Pack your Mickey Mouse ears…we’re heading to Disney World! Get ready for a magical weekend that brings all your Disney dreams to life. We’re talking epic rollercoasters, dazzling fireworks, and thrilling parades – now with an extra sprinkle of Mem Global magic! Dive into the Magic Kingdom and see how sacred moments can be created in both expected and unexpected places. With Disney as the world’s coolest classroom, we’ll explore how stories and shared moments can inspire new Jewish rituals and learn how to bring them back to your own community. From pictures with your favorite characters to a Disney Themed Shabbat, don’t miss this chance to meet new friends, build new traditions – and make your wishes come true! 

This retreat will not be shomer kashrut or shomer Shabbat.

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.

Step into the most magical place on earth…Disney World! From whizzing through the air on epic rollercoasters, to snapping pics with your favorite characters, and savoring a bite of the Mickey Mouse pretzel, it’s a trip to Epcot you’ll never forget! And now, we’ll experience the World Showcase like never before: as a starting point for Jewish learning. Explore what Jewish communities look like around the world, from the seas of Morocco to the hills of Mexico, dive into (Disney-themed!) Jewish rituals, and make amazing memories with a whole crew of other Jewish Disney fans. From the deep, to the delightful — it’s pure Disney!

Educator: Rabbi Shari Shamah

Come join us for a cozy Shabbat in the Maryland woods away from the stresses of daily life and connected to the joys of Jewish community and the natural world. Whether you always put your phone away for Shabbat or never have before, this Shabbaton is an opportunity to be fully present in singing, new friendships, a winter walk, Jewish learning, and more.

Educator: Rabbi Sienna Lotenberg

Had enough of life on dry land? Dive into an incredible weekend volunteering in the Florida Keys! In partnership with Repair the Sea and Repair the World, make a difference for this gorgeous landscape through beach and kayak water clean-ups, learn about the role of water in Torah through an environmental lens, and explore how to make service a part of meaningful Jewish life. Plus, enjoy paddling through the mangrove groves, relaxing on the beach, and a special Shabbat water meditation!

Please note: To ensure your safety and full participation in the retreat you must be able to swim, lift 15 pounds, and stand/walk for up to two hours at a time. We will be engaging in direct service/volunteering to celebrate Shabbat and therefore the retreat will not be Shomer Shabbat.

Educators: Rabbi Ed Rosenthal and Abbey London

Tentative dates. More details coming soon!

Enjoy an unforgettable Shabbat weekend in sunny Santa Barbara! Take in the beautiful views and wonders of the California landscape, by land and sea: from snorkeling trips, to kayak rides, scenic hikes, and even cave explorations. As we build our camp together under the stars, we’ll explore the Jewish concept of “radical amazement” and how we can keep every Shabbat filled with connection and discovery.

Get ready for a weekend dedicated to the wacky, wonderful, and weird side of Judaism! That’s right: we’re stepping outside the mainstream into the ideas, practices, and people the rabbis might wish you’d forget. Study forbidden texts, get to know iconoclasts and heretics of days gone by, and try out practices that ancient leaders tried to outlaw. Along the way, we’ll discover little-known Jewish civilizations like the Karaites, Beta Israel, and more! If you’re ready to explore new sides of Jewish history, feel inspired by possibilities, and always remember to live Jewish life, your way — this is the retreat for you!

Educator: Annie Prusky

Ever wondered how mahjong became a beloved Jewish pastime? Now is your chance to find out! Learn how to play this iconic game…and what it can teach us about Jewish life and community. Discover the rules and strategies that make mahjong so dynamic, then build your skills with plenty of friendly competition! Plus, explore the themes that connect mahjong and Judaism: belonging, language, and the perfect balance between structure and flexibility. From the mahjong lovers to the curious newbies, this weekend has something for everyone!

Educator: Rabbi Jill Levy

We’ll be volunteering in partnership with Repair the World and local organizations in the Seattle area.  More details coming soon!

Get ready for Mem Global’s first-ever city retreat! Join Jews from across the country as they come together to celebrate Shabbat in the Windy City. Laugh at some of the world’s best improv, indulge in some of the country’s best food (deep dish, anyone?), and explore the amazing architecture, all while celebrating Shabbat together. You will see the must-see Chicago attractions, plus some hidden gems as well!

More details coming soon!

More details coming soon!

More details coming soon!