The St. Charles Jewish Festival returns on Sunday, Aug. 10 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring live music, food and Jewish culture. A welcome addition to the festival, now in its fifth year, will be more opportunities to get out of the hot summer sun and into the shade. The location will again be the Lewis & Clark Boat House parking lot at 1050 S. Riverside Drive near the St. Charles Historic District.

A variety of activities will be available for children, including a bubble machine, petting zoo and crafts. Zelda’s Catering has been confirmed to provide kosher dishes for sale, including shawarma, kefta kabobs, falafel, brisket and schnitzel. An expanded Israeli-style open-air market will return for a second year. Attendees will be able to buy fresh produce, baked goods, jewelry and Judaica in the market, known as a shuk.

“We’re leaning into the shuk experience, which was a real hit last year,” said Rabbi Chaim Landa, co-director of the Chabad Jewish Center of St. Charles County. “The children’s track will have a whole new lineup in terms of cultural crafts. It’s a lot of leaning into a fun family experience and creating more opportunities for people to come together.”

Headlining the music lineup will be Aryeh Kunstler, a Jewish-American singer-songwriter. Other artists, including local musicians, will also perform. The 2024 St. Charles Jewish Festival drew nearly 3,800 attendees, Landa said, and he anticipates this year the total could increase. Jews and non-Jews from around the St. Louis metropolitan area are welcome.

“This is all about Jewish pride,” he said. “At the same time, it’s a really great way to connect. It’s a celebration rich with culture and traditions. It’s something really special, and a very natural organic way to come together. That is really what creates harmony and a beautiful society.”

Security and shuttle buses from the parking lot to the festival will be provided. There is no charge to attend, but registration is encouraged. Tickets are available here.