FAQs about the Holidays 2025/5786
Who comes to these meals? Do I have to be Jewish?
Hillel meals are for any students on campus who want to experience a Jewish holiday. Hundreds of students attend because they’re a great way to connect with friends, and the food is delicious.
Students of all backgrounds are welcome at Hillel. No questions asked. Hillel is not a membership organization or a club. We are committed to welcoming any student who wants to enjoy a Jewish experience.
Why do I have to RSVP in advance?
In order to have a place and food for everyone who wants to enjoy a holiday meal, we really appreciate it if you RSVP by the deadline. It turns out that providing a gourmet catered meal for hundreds of people involves tons of dedicated staff and volunteers.
What if I miss the deadline?
Email hillel@brandeis.edu, and we’ll do our best to add you to our wait list.
Why do some holiday meals have a cost?
Shabbat dinners and some holiday meals are catered, which is different from a regular meal in the dining hall.
Students reserve their spot with a payment of $22. The actual cost is higher. Hillel either caters or subsidizes holiday meals to make these experiences as accessible as possible.
What if I can’t afford it?
We’re committed to enabling anyone who wants to be at a Jewish holiday meal to be there.
Rabbi Winberg has some funds available to help. You can contact him in strict confidence. Thank you for contacting him as soon as you can and not waiting until just before the deadline to register.
Why is there a deadline of September 10?
That is the deadline by which Hillel needs to place our catering order. It is also courteous to our partners who are dealing with staffing shortages and other logistical challenges this season.
What if I don’t feel ready to RSVP by September 10?
This is a tricky question for us to answer. It may be more of a question for yourself. We get that RSVPing for a meal with a deadline seems incongruent with the day-to-day buffet in the dining hall.
On the other hand, college is about preparing for real life, and after graduation, making plans and commitments in advance becomes a reality.
Hillel has deadlines for ordering food in order to make sure we have enough food and seats for everyone who wants to celebrate together. We can’t guarantee food or space after the deadline. We really appreciate when students RSVP by the deadline.
Why is there a late fee?
When we try to add tables, chairs and food at the last minute, it costs more. Therefore, there is a late fee for late registrations.
Can I just show up?
It is a free country. Of course you can show up. At catered meals which we host, we’ll always do our best to find a seat for another guest. That’s what we’re about. However, students with confirmed RSVPs will be seated first.
And thanks again for RSVPing in advance ;)
Is the food kosher?
Yes, because this maximizes inclusion. Most of our caterers are certified by KVH. Milk Street Cafe is certified kosher by ORC Kosher.
What about other dietary needs?
If you email us (hillel@brandeis.edu) and connect with us by the RSVP deadline, we’ll do everything we can to work with you and our caterers to make Shabbat as inclusive as possible.
Is this just for students? Can alumni or parents come?
We love when alumni and parents want to come to a holiday meal or Shabbat dinner. Please email hillel@brandeis.edu and we’ll help you. Like students, we really appreciate when you reach out in advance. It is customary for guests who are not students to make a donation to Hillel.
How do I get a lulav and etrog?
You can purchase a lulav and etrog using the same registration form as for meals and services. Pick up will be in the Hillel Lounge in Usdan.
Who can use the Hillel Sukkah?
Holiday and Shabbat meals for those who sign up will be in the Hillel Sukkah in Massell Quad (next to Sherman dining hall).
The Hillel Sukkah is available for use by the entire Brandeis community during the intermediate days (October 2-6) -- bring your food from either side of Sherman or from home.