Largest Rosh Hashanah celebration in the nation to take place at UF O’Connell Center

Press release from Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – On Monday evening, September 22, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, will begin. The Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center will host the largest Rosh Hashanah service and dinner in North America at the University of Florida’s O’Connell Center – Exactech Arena. More than 1,000 students, faculty, alumni, and community members are expected to attend.

“This year, with the rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment, Jewish people are feeling more connected to one another and to their traditions,” said Rabbi Berl Goldman, director of Chabad UF. “What better way to begin a new year than by coming together in unity to pray for peace, strength, and blessings for all people.”

The celebration will begin at 5:15 p.m. with prayers, including special intentions for the hostages and people of Israel. UF Interim President Dr. Donald W. Landry will attend and share holiday greetings. Additional dignitaries and community leaders are also expected.

The event is free and open to all, with no fees or membership required. Extensive security measures are in place to ensure a safe environment.

“YES, we are returning to the O’Dome for Rosh Hashanah Eve, to accommodate all the students, faculty, and community who depend on us year-round and even more so for the High Holidays” said Chanie Goldman, co-director. “Since many students are unable to go home, we are here to provide them with a home away from home and a delicious home-style holiday-cooked meal. Especially this year, when the Jewish people have been facing so much tribulation, it is so important to gather together to be united”.

“According to Jewish tradition, the doors of Heaven are open during the New Year and all prayers are accepted,” added Lexi Szafranski, president of the UF Chabad Student Group. “We are opening our doors, too — everyone is invited.”

Rabbi Goldman expressed gratitude to the many sponsors who make the holiday programming possible: “Thanks to the generosity of alumni, parents, and community supporters, thousands of students can celebrate the High Holidays with dignity, joy, and tradition.”

Event Details:

WHEN: Monday, September 22, 2025 | Doors open at 5:15 p.m.

WHERE: UF O’Connell Center – Exactech Arena

For the full schedule of High Holiday services (Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur), RSVP, and details, visit www.JewishGator.com/HighHolidays.