A Place to Build Jewish Identity

Few settings can match the power of Camp Ramah to transmit a love of Jewish life. Campers experience Kabbalat Shabbat by the lake, Havdalah under the stars, Birkat Hamazon and singing in the dining hall and Jewish text and Hebrew language classes while lounging beneath the trees. Ramah campers observe Kashrut, participate in daily services with friends and improve their conversational Hebrew. They develop strong ties to the State of Israel through fun and innovative programs and friendships with Israeli staff.

At Ramah, Judaism is woven into every aspect of ethics to help resolve a conflict on the basketball court, softball field or cabin. Art, music and dance classes incorporate Jewish concepts and culture. And every summer, campers in each aidah bring Broadway shows to the stage - entirely in Hebrew!

Daily services and classes
Our goal at Ramah is to make services and classes a fun and meaningful experience for campers of all ages, and to enable campers to learn and to improve their knowledge and skills. Morning services offer a wonderful opportunity for campers to learn more about the service, practice skills and take on leadership roles.

A rich variety of Hebrew language classes are offered, including an intensive ulpan program at both the beginning and advanced levels. Hebrew classes are arranged by level within each age division and no prior Hebrew knowledge is necessary.

Campers also participate in a Judaica text class that explores Jewish themes or concepts such as Shabbat, Tzedakah, Jewish values and more. Other study options include intensive rabbinics and a course in Hebrew language focused on Israeli films. Judaic text teachers use drama, plays and other creative methods to engage campers in lively and thoughtful discussions.

There's nothing like Shabbat at Camp Ramah!
Shabbat is one of the highlights of the Ramah experience. Friday afternoon the regular routine ceases and music beckons campers for Israeli dancing. The oldest campers carry benches to the waterfront to set up for Kabbalat Shabbat while other campers prepare special notes to give to friends. Everyone hurries to clean their cabins and dress in their finest camp clothes. As the sun begins to set, the entire camp gathers by the lake to welcome Shabbat. After services, campers enjoy a traditional Shabbat meal complete with home-made matzah ball soup, fresh baked challah and delicious cake for dessert, followed by enthusiastic singing.

After a light breakfast and Shabbat morning services, campers enjoy the free time that Shabbat offers to play sports, talk, swim, read a book, play Frisbee, or simply relax in the sun with friends. After lunch, campers join in lively discussions about Jewish topics relevant to campers and camp life. The day continues with more freetime for swimming and sports and a chance to enjoy the afternoon with friends, followed by the weekly Shabbat performance by Ramah-Kala, Ramah's premiere A Capella group. Shabbat comes to a close with beautiful singing and Havdalah as campers look forward to a new week and count the days to the next Shabbat.