News

Get ready, film lovers! The countdown is officially on for the 14th annual Boulder Jewish Film Festival, returning to the Dairy Arts Center from October 25 – November 1!

This year’s lineup is an absolute powerhouse, celebrating the massive, unforgettable role Jews have played in shaping pop culture, the arts, and global history. Mark your calendars: tickets go on sale October 8 at thedairy.org, and you will not want to miss out on these incredible cinematic experiences.

How does a young girl’s private diary, written while hiding in a secret annex, transform into one of the most influential books in human history? And how did it nearly never see the light of day?

On Thursday, July 16, you have a rare opportunity to discover the untold stories behind Anne Frank’s legacy. We invite you to a special lecture featuring Gillian Perry, the Co-founder and 26-year Executive Director of the Anne Frank Trust UK. Through her decades of dedicated work, Gillian had the extraordinary privilege of personally meeting the people who knew Anne. Now, she is bringing those deeply personal insights, history, and inspiration to our community.

When we think about the invention of the birth control pill in 1960, we usually picture the rise of the feminist movement, women’s liberation, and the dawn of the sexual revolution. But there is a hidden history to contraception in America, one where religious leaders were some of its most fierce champions.

On Monday, July 20, at 7 PM, our community has a unique opportunity to dive into this fascinating history. The Boulder JCC, in partnership with Congregation Har HaShem, Boulder Hadassah, and the Women of Har HaShem, will host Samira K. Mehta in conversation with Rabbi Ruth Gelfarb for an in-depth discussion of Mehta’s compelling new book, God Bless the Pill.

In light of recent challenges and painful events within our community, our hearts go out to the students and families navigating trauma, as well as to everyone feeling vulnerable, sad, or angry right now. Times like these remind us how deeply interconnected we are, and how vital it is to look out for one another. Please know this: You are not alone. We are here for you, and we stand united. To provide a dedicated space for connection, healing, and mutual support, you are warmly invited to join us for an informal, drop-in Community Coffee.

Our primary focus right now is ensuring that every parent, teenager, and child feels supported and valued. Whether you want to process recent events, ask questions, or simply sit in community with others, our doors are wide open. The first session will take place on Friday, June 26, followed by a second session on Tuesday, June 30. Both gatherings are informal, drop-in style, and open to all community members seeking comfort and connection. Representatives from local Jewish community organizations will also be present to offer guidance, resources, and a supportive ear.

Our understanding of gender identity is expanding rapidly, bringing meaningful, important, and deeply human conversations to the forefront of our communities. As these concepts evolve, many are looking for clear frameworks to better navigate the discussion. What defines gender identity, and how does it relate to sexual orientation?

 To help provide clarity and shared language, the upcoming exchange class is hosting an insightful lecture titled "Tools for Understanding Gender Identity" featuring renowned expert Dr. Susan Trout. On Monday, June 22, from 5:30 - 7 pm, this session offers a welcoming space to learn about the frameworks that shape these vital concepts.

Rather than looking at these topics through a polarized lens, Dr. Trout will focus on current research and insights to bring clarity to the conversation. Attendees will explore the vital distinctions between biological sex characteristics and an individual's internal gender identity.

The Pearl Street Mall was transformed into a sea of energy, connection, and profound community spirit on Sunday, June 7, as thousands of attendees gathered to celebrate the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival. The milestone event successfully bridged a morning of deep reflection with an afternoon of joy. Presented by the Boulder JCC, this year’s festival carried an undeniable weight and beauty, proving to be one of the most memorable and highly attended gatherings in the event’s three-decade history.

The festival opened at 11 am with a solemn and deeply moving commemoration on the Courthouse Lawn. Marking the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Boulder Run For Their Lives walk for the hostages, community leaders and elected officials took to the stage to honor the victims and speak to the enduring strength of the Boulder community. This period of remembrance featured powerful messages of comfort, resilience, and solidarity from an esteemed panel of public servants, spiritual leaders, and community pillars. The crowd listened intently to remarks from Congressman Joe Neguse, Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty, and Boulder JCC Executive Director Jonathan Lev. They were joined by a dedicated group of community voices and clergy, including Rabbi Marc Soloway, Rabbi Fred Greene, Rabbi Charna Rosenholtz, Michelle Goldman, Ed Victor, and Susan Rona. Following these moving reflections, the festival beautifully transitioned into its main objective: a vibrant, proud, and joyful celebration of Jewish life, music, art, and culture.

There is something uniquely comforting about a Friday night. The rush of the week slows down, the candles are lit, and a sense of pause settles in. This June, the Boulder JCC is opening its doors to create that exact space for local adults aged 50 and better. On Friday, June 26, from 6 to 8 pm, you are invited to a catered Shabbat dinner designed entirely around connection, warmth, and great conversation.

If you’ve ever felt like it’s getting harder to find your people as time goes on, you aren’t alone. Whether you are a lifelong Boulderite, a recent transplant trying to navigate a new city, or someone looking to expand your social circle, this evening is for you. There are no expectations, no tests of prior knowledge, and no specific level of religious observance required. The goal is simple: to show up, share a delicious meal, and enjoy the company of others in a welcoming environment.

What happens to the soul after we die? How do ancient Jewish traditions speak to modern grief, and how can preparing for the end of life actually teach us how to live more fully today?

On Monday, June 8, the Boulder community will have a unique opportunity to explore these profound questions. The Boulder JCC, the Boulder Chevra Kadisha, and JADE (Jewish Association for Death Education) are co-sponsoring a special presentation featuring Rick Light, a renowned author, educator, and leading voice in Jewish end-of-life practices.

Rick’s presentation will delve deeply into Jewish perspectives on the soul and the afterlife, tracing the evolution of these ideas from historical roots to modern interpretations. Far from being a somber academic exercise, the presentation will focus on how these theological views directly inform traditional Jewish practices at the end of life.

On Sunday, June 7, the heart of downtown Boulder will light up with the vibrant sounds, flavors, and artistry of the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival. Taking place from 11 am to 3 pm at the iconic Pearl Street Mall, this free, family-friendly event invites the entire community to celebrate three decades of Jewish culture and connection. This year’s festival is anchored in a theme of remembrance, resilience, community, and joy. From profound musical collaborations to a bustling marketplace and delicious culinary offerings, the festival promises a memorable afternoon for all generations.

A Meaningful Start: Reflection and Resilience

The 2026 festival begins with a poignant moment of community solidarity. Opening remarks at 11 am will include a commemoration marking the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Boulder Run For Their Lives humanitarian walk for the hostages. This period of reflection underscores the resilience of the Boulder community. Following the commemoration, the festival will intentionally shift its focus at 11:30 am toward the vibrant celebration and joy that defines Jewish life.

Looking to spark your curiosity and engage with some of today’s most pressing global conversations? The Summer Exchange Lecture Series is back for 2026, bringing an extraordinary lineup of experts, advocates, and thought leaders straight to our community.

From the frontiers of medical and social science to global conservation, international security, and supreme legal history, this year’s four-part series promises to challenge your perspectives and broaden your worldview.

Spaces are limited for these highly anticipated evening lectures. Secure your spot today to guarantee your seat for the entire summer series! Register on the Boulder JCC website.