Introducing Festival Sefarad

The American Sephardi Federation presents:

Festival Sefarad

New York City is home to one of the most diverse and dynamic Jewish communities in the world. After the atrocities of October 7, the need for creating communal, intellectual, and cultural connections that bring all Jews together has never been greater. In response to this need, the American Sephardi Federation is proudly debuting Festival Sefarad NYC—a citywide, month-long celebration of the Greater Sephardi world. Featuring a variety of events with something for everyone—from musical performances and book talks, to exhibitions, tours, and Shabbat dinners—Festival Sefarad NYC will be the first festival of its kind in the U.S.A. Our Festival is inspired by and an homage to the CSUQ’s Festival Séfarad de Montréal, now in its 45th season.

At the heart of Festival Sefarad NYC is the 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival (NYSJFF). This unique cinematic celebration showcases premiere film screenings, exclusive artist conversations, and the Pomegranate Awards ceremony, recognizing Sephardic excellence in the arts. This year’s honorees are:

Yael Naim
Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Music

Michel Boujenah
Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Stage and Screen

Fortuna
Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Preservation of Sephardic Culture

Roya Hakakian
Pomegranate Lifetime Achievement Award for Literature

In collaboration with over 40 leading communal institutions, Festival Sefarad NYC will unfold across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island, a movable feast ensuring accessibility and welcoming participation from every corner of the Jewish community.

With the support of the UJA-Federation of New York, Festival Sefarad NYC is more than a festival. It is a celebration of who we are, and who we can be together.

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Be a Part of the Festival!