Tu B'shvat Activities: Celebrating the New Year of Trees

Tu B'shvat activities in Israel and Russia brought the holiday spirit to life through creativity, education, and community support

• February 16, 2025
• - 18 Shevat 5785

In honor of the holiday, Chamah hosted special activities in both Israel and Russia, bringing joy and learning to children and families and honoring the traditions of the holiday. From creative workshops to care packages for families, Tu B'shvat was a meaningful time for the Chamah community.

Tu B'shvat, the New Year of Trees, is a time to connect with nature and celebrate the beauty of the earth. The holiday holds great significance in Jewish tradition, as it is the day when the age of trees is determined for purposes of tithing, and it marks the transition between the past and future harvests.  

In Israel, the children at Chamah Day Care Centers received special fruit packets containing seasonal fresh and dried fruits, tailored to their age. Many of these children have fathers currently serving on active duty in the Israel Defense Forces and other units protecting Israel, and their families were also gifted with thoughtful care packages. 

To celebrate the holiday in a fun and engaging way, staff at the day care centers enjoyed a fruit carving workshop, where they crafted their own unique fruit platters.

In Russia, at the Chamah Center for Child Development, children eagerly learned about the growth process from seed to fruit, gaining a deeper understanding of nature’s cycles. During clay therapy sessions, the children crafted Tu B'shvat-themed projects, such as trees and plants, allowing them to express their creativity while developing their artistic skills. These activities helped the children connect with the holiday's themes of growth, renewal, and the environment.

These initiatives infused the holiday spirit of Tu B'shvat with creativity, connection, and essential support for families in Israel and Russia. ■