One way that we celebrate the Shabbat at CampTawonga is through a program called Shabbat Electives. Counselors and other staff work throughout the week to plan meaningful Jewish experiences and blocks to share with the kids. The campers select their Shabbat Elective based on their personal interests and spend the afternoon exploring different connections to Israel.

Check out the descriptions of the Shabbat Electives and some great photos from them.

Walk like a Miwok: Two peoples, the Jews and the Miwoks, thousands of years of tradition each; walk the ancient trade route of the Miwok’s and learn how their history and tradition matches ours.

Israeli Folk Dance: More then just The Grapevine! Come join Yonatan and co to learn and move to the music!

Imagine all the Hebrews Going Dumb: Slam Poetry for Jews- Cain, Abel, Adam or Eve, take on a character from our past and write some Slam Poetry from their point of view.

Mystical Creature Creation: Ever want to become a sea monster? Are you curious what the angel of rain would look like? These creatures and many more are all part of our Jewish tradition. Come create your own creature costumes, hear stories, sing, and act out these magical beings!

Jews in Sports- Who are your favorite Jewish athletes? We'll be playing games, talking about Jews in sports, making our own “Team Jew” logos, and talking about the importance of Jewish athletes-all as a way to explore our own Jewish identity.

Run Jacob, Run!: You've never seen the Jacob story like this! Who would have thought that pulling a fast one on your brother, wrestling angels and changing your name could be so intriguing. In this physical guided activity that will find you wrestling yourself and others, you'll connect to Jacob’s run from his brother and discover a bit of your own truth.

Judaism in 3D: Make awesome 3D artwork that shows that perspective is everything! As you come into the 3^rd dimension take a second look at your own Judaism and spirituality, inspired by the world renowned Israeli artist Yakov Agam.

Dancing with the Fiddler: Tradition! Tradition! Come do the Broadway “Fiddler on the Roof” dances, and experience the “Old Country” of Eastern European Jewish culture. What, you’re too good to dance with Tevia?

Judaism, Touch and the Body: If our body is our sanctuary, how should we treat it? Learn about massage, the human body, and what our tradition says about the idea of touch.