Seattle - Fall 2025

Rabbi Daniel Hadar teaching community kids about Tisha BeAv and special tefillah for the day during his recent scholarship-in-residence.

Seattle’s Sephardic community has been bustling with activity this summer, hosting a wide array of educational programs, cultural events, and Sephardic activities. At Congregation Ezra Bessaroth, Rabbi David Benchlouch has been leading enriching classes on Sephardic traditions and Torah concepts. One of the most exciting new programs is the Sephardic Pizmonim Party, where young boys and girls learn traditional Sephardic melodies in Hebrew and Ladino, while enjoying fun games and prizes. The program has been a huge hit with families and is fostering the next generation’s connection to Sephardic musical heritage.

Community members at a recent Sephardic Baking Day at Congregation Ezra Bessaroth

The Seattle Sephardic Network has also been making waves with its Seattle Sephardic Tours, which explore the history of the community from its early days in the historic Central District to the founding of the two Sephardic congregations. Another big hit, Los Muevos Ladineros, monthly Ladino learning sessions in partnership with the Sephardic Studies Program at the University of Washington and the American Ladino League, has continued to grow. This has been a great way for novices and expert Ladino speakers to learn and practice the language together. SSN has also launched a new Sephardic Young Professionals Network, with a recent Sephardic cooking class for young adults in their 20s and 30s.

At Sephardic Bikur Holim, they had a special three week scholarship-in-residence with Rabbi and Rubissa Daniel Hadar, visiting from Temple Moses in Miami, Florida. The dynamic couple let weekly classes for children and adults alike, and made this year’s Tisha BeAv programming particularly meaningful for the SBH community. SBH also dedicated the new Haleva Family Lounge, a beautiful space for visiting scholars and community members alike to utilize for future programs. 

Looking ahead, the community is gearing up for an exciting spring lineup, including festive Sephardic high holiday celebrations, baking sessions with the Ezra Bessaroth Ladies Auxiliary, and much more. Stay updated on all events by visiting the community websites and newsletters.