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A Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a Jewish tradition and celebration to mark the coming of age for children ages 12-13. The Bar/Bat Mitzvah includes a religious ceremony followed by a festive celebration and party with family and friends. The occasion is held in synagogues or stylish event venues. In this blog, we’ll help you understand all your venue options, leading you to your perfect location for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration.
What Is a Bar or Bat Mitzvah?
Bar Mitzvah (boy) and Bat Mitzvah (girl) mean son/daughter of the commandment. The celebration marks a coming of age, when the child is considered morally and religiously responsible for their actions. For boys, the age of eligibility is 13; for girls, the age of eligibility is 12 to 13.
This ceremony and celebration marks the child’s obligation to observe Jewish commandments. It is a spiritual and social milestone for the family.
Where Is the Bar Mitzvah Ceremony Held?
There are a number of options to select from when looking to hold a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The Bar Mitzvah Ceremony is usually held in a synagogue during Shabbat services. The event can also be held in an alternative spiritual setting, depending on family traditions and denomination. The family can also choose to hold the religious ceremony at a chosen venue where the after-party will be held, ideally an event venue.
At the religious portion of the Bar Mitzvah, the child will read from the Torah, receive a blessing from their father, and partake in the Tefillin (a leather box of parchment inscribed with verses from the Torah that is strapped to the head and arms during prayers). At the ceremony, it is also customary for the child to give a speech. The speech typically includes how he will apply the teachings of the Torah to his own life, as well as express gratitude to his parents, rabbi, family, and friends in attendance.
Where Does the Bar Mitzvah Celebration Take Place?
A Bar Mitzvah can take place in many settings. The location will come down to your event budget, guest list, cultural preferences and flexibility. Some families may choose to focus more on the Bar Mitzvah Party, and others centre around the ceremony. A Bar Mitzvah can include one or two locations, with the ceremony and party held in the same or different places.
Bar Mitzvah location options:
- Synagogue social halls
- Private homes or backyards
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Purpose-built event venues
Choosing the Right Venue for Your Bar Mitzvah Celebration
When choosing the perfect venue, take into consideration the following factors.
- Guest list size: How many people will be in attendance? A big guest list will need a large venue.
- Catering requirements: You need to know the number of people you are catering to, their dietary requirements and ensure that the catering is kosher.
- Dancing and entertainment: Ensure the event venue is comfortable and spacious, allowing for the ceremony and party to take place with entertainment and space for a dance floor.
- Accessibility: Ensure the location is accessible for all guests, with public transport options, parking and assisted entry for older or disabled family members.
How to Balance Tradition with Modern Celebration
Keep the Bar Mitzvah tradition alive by incorporating customary elements throughout the celebration. Most families will choose to have a traditional ceremony and a modern reception. Other ways to incorporate tradition into the party include Jewish customs such as the hora dance, motzi (blessing over the bread), candle lighting, speeches and childhood montages. Every family and denomination may have their own traditions to add to the celebration.
By adding tradition, you are personalising the party to make it extra special and memorable for the child.
Do You Need to Keep the Ceremony and Reception in the Same Place?
The Bar Mitzvah ceremony and reception do not need to be at the same location. Families may choose to have a synagogue ceremony in the morning and a reception at a separate venue later that day or that weekend. If you decide to hold your ceremony and reception at different locations, think about transportation logistics and the guests’ comfort.
Styling and Themes for Bar Mitzvah Parties
The styling and theme for the Bar Mitzvah should be personal to the child at the centre of the celebration. Incorporate the child’s interests and hobbies, such as sports, movies, music, etc. Think about themes that relate to the child, such as a neon dance party, garden celebration, sports theme or formal banquet. Include the child in the decisions, giving his ideas for decor, music and food. Not only will the event be more memorable for him and the guests with his personality infused into the celebration, but it also marks the beginning of responsibility.
Simplify your event styling with the help of an event stylist. Luxe By Navarra is a personalised event stylist, coordinator and florist. Working alongside you to create the perfect Bar Mitzvah from the morning of the celebration to the end of the night. Incorporate all your traditions and personal touches. Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event, stress-free and styled to perfection, working with Luxe By Navarra.
Venue Checklist: What to Ask Before Booking
When booking your venue, feel confident that you are making the right choice by taking all the right steps and asking the right questions. View the venue in person before booking. Get a feel for the location and the staff you will be working with. Ask any questions you need answered.
Suggest key questions to ask a potential venue:
- Do you offer in-house catering?
- Is the space adaptable for teens and adults?
- What AV/entertainment setup is included?
- Can it accommodate cultural/religious requests?
- What table setup and styling options are included?
- Is the event staffed?
- Are there any extra fees to be accounted for?
Honour Tradition and Celebrate in Style
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs are a special moment in a child’s life that will be a memory that lasts forever. Choose a venue that will reflect your values and vision for the day. Personalise the occasion for your child to ensure a celebration filled with joy, love and hope.
Explore Navarra’s Bar/Bat Mitzvahs venues or get in touch to discuss event packages or offerings.
