The engaging curriculum & facilitation of lessons, the environment, & the family-like feel of the faculty & staff are unmatched.
- Parent from CJDS Survey
704.366.4558 | CJDSchool. org
The Charlotte Jewish News- Janurary 2026- Page 20
Nurturing Curiosity and Community at the Ballantyne Jewish Center
By Leah Levin
Jewish learning often begins in unexpected places whether at a kitchen counter, a craft table, or on a summer field. This year, among the many opportunities offered, the Ballantyne Jewish Center is excited to highlight two meaningful ways to engage: an immersive food festival that brings tradition to life through cooking, and the return of Camp Gan Israel( CGI), where summer days unfold with imagination, connection, and a deep sense of Jewish pride.
Kids Jewish Food Festival: A Tasty Journey Through Judaism
Families are invited to a morning where curiosity, flavor, and tradition meet. The upcoming Kids Jewish Food Festival offers children ages four and up the opportunity to explore Judaism through cooking, one recipe, one story, and one joyful taste at a time.
Connecting Food and Tradition Through a Hands-on Culinary Experience.
Children will roll up their sleeves to prepare a range of iconic Jewish treats. From shaping rugelach and baking honey cookies to assembling fruit flowers and decorating Chanukah cookies, participants will enjoy a tangible, creative introduction to beloved dishes. Each child will take home their creations to bake and share with family, extending the experience beyond the event itself.
Every recipe on the festival menu carries meaning. Children
will learn why honey is central to Rosh Hashana, how jelly-filled donuts became tied to Chanukah, and how certain flavors and rituals have traveled through generations. What begins as a cooking activity becomes a doorway into story, heritage, and memory. Event Details Monday, Jan. 19, 10:30 a. m. – noon South Charlotte Banquet Center, 9009 Bryant Farms Rd. Cost: $ 15 per child through
Jan. 8; $ 20 after Jan. 8
To reserve a spot, please visit www. JewishBallantyne. com / jewishfood
Experience the Magic of CGI
As families look ahead to summer, we are preparing for another memorable season. CGI, now in its thirteenth year, has become widely known for its warm environment, thoughtful programming, and dynamic experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, and a joyful connection to Jewish life.
At its core, CGI’ s mission is simple yet far-reaching: to instill Jewish values in children of all backgrounds and levels of observance. Campers encounter those values through adventure, creativity, and the everyday moments that build lasting friendships as well as a growing sense of Jewish identity.
Why Choose CGI?
CGI offers a setting where exploration and tradition blend naturally. Campers participate in everything from field trips to immersive projects, discovering new skills while deepening their connection to Jewish culture. Through challah baking, drama, crafts, as well as songs, traditions take shape in ways that feel spirited yet accessible. The result is an incredible summer full of impactful experiences that resonate long after camp ends. Camp Details June 22 – July 17 Families may register for individual weeks or the full fourweek session, with multi-week savings available. Camp Groups Include: Junior CGI: Rising K – 3rd grade Senior CGI: Rising 4th – 6th grade CGI XTREME: Rising 7th –
8th grade( June 22 – July 3)
For more information or registration, please visit www. CGIBallantyne. com
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
JEWISH VALUES
INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING
The engaging curriculum & facilitation of lessons, the environment, & the family-like feel of the faculty & staff are unmatched.
- Parent from CJDS Survey
704.366.4558 | CJDSchool. org