New York Shabbat Dinner Breaks Guinness World Record

It was a Friday night unlike any other in New York City. On the top floor of Manhattan’s sprawling Javits Center, a record-breaking 2,761 Jews gathered to celebrate Shabbat marking a historic moment for Jewish unity, pride, and tradition.

Dubbed “The Big Shabbat,” the event was more than just a dazzling feat of logistics. It was a deliberate statement of Jewish vibrancy and communal strength. After Berlin claimed the previous Guinness World Record in 2015, organizers set out to reclaim that title for the Jewish people’s spiritual and cultural heart this time, in the world’s second largest Jewish city.

Over a year of careful planning culminated in an awe-inspiring evening, orchestrated by Temple Emanu-El’s Streicker Center. A small army of 68 chefs, hundreds of volunteers, kosher supervisors, security teams, and Guinness officials worked in near-perfect harmony to bring the vision to life. And what a vision it was.

Before dinner began, attendees watched a humorous AI-generated video featuring digital recreations of Jewish icons like Albert Einstein, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Golda Meir, and Anne Frank, offering light-hearted Shabbat commentary that connected past to present in a modern twist on tradition.

The candle lighting ceremony was especially emotional. Omri Miran, a former hostage held by Hamas, lit the candles alongside his wife Lishay infusing the room with a deep sense of meaning and resilience.

Then came the meal. Served along vast communal tables, the multi-course kosher dinner featured salmon, miniature kugels, vegetable lasagna, fresh salads, and enough baked goods to satisfy thousands. Guests were required to check in by 6:30 p.m. and remain seated for the official count no small feat in a room of nearly 3,000.

At 8:56 p.m., Guinness World Records adjudicator Andrew Glass stepped onto the stage and announced the final tally 2,761 verified participants. The room erupted. Seconds later, Jewish a cappella group Six13 hit the stage with a rendition of Queen’s “We Are the Champions,” capturing the elation and pride that filled the air.

This wasn't just a dinner it was a declaration. A celebration of Jewish continuity, identity, and togetherness. In a time when so much seeks to divide, The Big Shabbat reminded the world of what unites us.

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