Pizza, prizes, and party vibes: How LollapaJEWza 2024 is dressing Erev Hanukkah!

Published December 16, 2024

What happens when you take a dive bar, add some dazzling outfits, a guest DJ and the St. Louis young adult Jewish community? You get LollapaJEWza, of course—the annual holiday event that’s been bringing people together for 15 years. This year, it’s happening on Dec. 24, starting at 8 p.m.—Erev Hanukkah.

The timing couldn’t be better. Before the candles are lit and the latkes are fried, LollapaJEWza invites you to celebrate the start of the Festival of Lights with friends, music and good vibes.

This year’s theme is “Dress Up the Dive Bar,” so it’s time to dust off your cocktail dress or favorite sports coat and step up your style game. There’s even a prize for best dressed, so if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to wear that sparkly blazer or those velvet loafers, this is it.

“We’re turning the dive bar vibe on its head,” said Ben Cedergreen, one of this year’s co-chairs. “It’s all about creating an elevated but super fun way to close out the year and kick off Hanukkah.”

A night of music, games and giving back

Held in the Grove neighborhood at Atomic by Jamo, the event promises a mix of fun, food and connection. Guests can expect music from a guest DJ, bar games, pizza and, of course, plenty of drinks to toast the night away.

But this isn’t just a party—it’s also a chance to support the community. To attend, guests need to register a ticketed donation to the 2024 Jewish Federation of St. Louis annual campaign, which helps meet the growing needs of the local Jewish community.

Advance registration is encouraged, and there’s a bonus if you act fast. “Register before Dec. 23, and you’ll receive a free drink ticket,” Cedergreen said. “It’s a great way to kick off the night.”

Tickets require a minimum contribution of $18. Those who procrastinate can still register at the door for $22.

Celebrating 15 years of LollapaJEWza

LollapaJEWza began as a way to bring the young adult Jewish community together on Dec. 24—a night many spend seeking out a good party. While photos from the very first event remain elusive, memories from the last 15 years continue to fuel excitement for this much-anticipated gathering.

“It’s a tradition that has really grown with the community,” said co-chair Ethan Singer. “And every year, we find new ways to make it special.”

This year’s “Dress Up the Dive Bar” theme adds a playful twist, inviting attendees to shine—literally—in the dim light of the bar’s neon signs.

“Whether it’s your go-to holiday dress or a suit you only wear for weddings, it’s your time to shine,” Singer said.