Get ready, St. Louis. The much-anticipated Sababa Jewish Arts & Culture Festival is back, and it’s set to light up Washington University on Sept. 29. Organized by the Jewish Community Center (the J) in collaboration with the St. Louis Jewish Federation, this event promises to be a vibrant celebration of Jewish art, music and food.
“Sababa,” which translates to “cool” in Hebrew, is exactly what this festival embodies. Attendees can look forward to a day filled with performances from an eclectic mix of artists, mouthwatering kosher food and activities that celebrate the rich tapestry of Jewish culture.
“While the Sababa format is similar to previous years, it will have a whole new feel and look so everyone will enjoy it, both people who attended in the past and first-timers as well. There will be increased security as well to make sure the event is safe and secure,” said Rabbi Brad Horwitz, chief Jewish engagement officer at the J.
Musical Lineup
This year’s musical headliners are sure to impress.
Gili Yalo is one of the most intriguing musicians in the music scene in Israel. Yalo combines Ethiopian roots with soul, funk, psychedelic and jazz music. He incorporates sounds from traditional Ethiopian music into contemporary music production. The result is an exceptional, rich, vivid melody accompanied by Yalo’s unique voice with lyrics in both English and Amharic. www.giliyalo.com
Joe Buchanan is Texas-born and southern-raised. Buchanan makes country music that is steeped in Torah and the trials of the human spirit. A blend of Southern soul and country charm, his music is grounded in the belief that there is always more room at the table. www.joebuchananmusic.com/epk
Charlie Kramer, Lucy Greenbaum & Greta Rosenstock are all local artists and/or song leaders for St. Louis Jewish organizations. Their combined performance will be a “one day only” exclusive show for Sababa 2024. Greenbaum and Rosenstock encourage Jewish families attending Sunday school to join the festivities after class.
Klezundheit! is the only klezmer big band in Missouri and will be performing a high-energy and very danceable klezmer set for Sababa. Founded by bandleader Bob Herman in 1998, the band has been featured performers at concerts and festivals in St. Louis, Paraguay and Brazil. You can also hear Klezundheit! at CRC’s Simchat Torah celebrations and venues around town. stljewishlight.org/jewish-community-directory/klezundheit
“The goal was to present a variety of musical genres, funk, country, soul, acoustic, that would appeal to folks of all ages and interests. Also, we wanted to feature more local St. Louis talent as well as some out-of-town performers,” said Horwitz.
Kosher food
Let’s not forget the food. Zelda’s Catering from Chicago will be serving up a feast of kosher delights. Known for its fresh, from-scratch dishes, Zelda’s menu will offer a variety of tasty options that perfectly complement the festival’s cultural offerings.
Family fun and art
New this year, Sababa will feature a dedicated pavilion for families and children. With activities and entertainment specifically designed for younger attendees, the festival is truly an event for all ages.
“This year’s art and vendors each have a unique talent and represent a variety of mediums,” said Horwitz. “We will have plenty of jewelry, ceramics, wood, glass, prints and so much more.”
Sababa – Jewish Arts & Culture Festival
When: Sunday, Sept. 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Washington University, parking lot outside Simon Hall at the south entrance of the campus
More Info: Free parking available underground in the Danforth University Center Garage (6475 Forsyth Blvd.). Visit them online.
