For Immediate Release
Get Ready for TribeFest 2012!

TribeFest, which broke the mold for Jewish Federations events for younger people earlier this year, is back -- generating buzz online and promising even more exciting and inspiring connections to the Jewish community. The Jewish Federations of North America recently announced TribeFest 2012, to take place March 25-27 at The Venetian in Las Vegas.

Building on momentum from the inaugural TribeFest, TribeFest 2012 will feature an even wider array of Jewish experiences and events for younger adults, ages 22 to 45.

“We are thrilled that TribeFest 2012 is set in motion and that Jewish Federations are again catalyzing this incredible opportunity,” said Jerry Silverman, president and CEO of JFNA.

“TribeFest 2012 will feature the kind of cutting-edge programming that earlier this year inspired more than 1,300 younger Jews – many attending a Jewish event for the first time,” added Silverman.

With its mix of music, learning, social networking and fun, TribeFest this year produced a broad array of experiences, from performances by Soulico to hands-on sessions like “Punk Jews: Unconventional and Awesome Expressions of Judaism" and "Gonzo Judaism: Brash, Bold and In Your Face."

“TribeFest is a celebration of all things Jewish. It is the opportunity for Jews from all over North America to connect and experience all aspects of Judaism, including tikkun olam, volunteering and advocacy,” said JFNA’s National Young Leadership Co-Chair, Shelly Kupfer.

“TribeFest provides an opportunity to broaden the scope of one’s Jewish journey. It’s a chance to learn from the best and brightest on how to get involved Jewishly in your community,” added JFNA’s National Young Leadership Co-Chair, Brian Katz.

The inaugural TribeFest signaled a major shift in programming for Jewish Federation events. TV star Mayim Bialik, for example, described her journey into deeper Jewish engagement through a “top seven things you wouldn’t experience without being Jewish.” She included a discussion of how Judaism gives her a framework and meaning in her life -- and a bond with “the Jew Crew.”
 
TribeFest also showcased an innovative event venue, featuring a hip Las Vegas retro look and more informal settings encouraging social connections, a festival-like feel and learning. TribeFest’s version of an exhibit hall, called “The Big Show,” included a performance stage, lounge, photo booth, and marketplace of partner organizations featuring ideas on everything from Jewish arts to Israel experience programs.
 
TribeFest participants filled the giant room, dancing, socializing and reviewing the day’s events while artists like Israeli hip-hop violinist Miri Ben-Ari, the band Yemen Blues and comedian Joel Chasnoff performed.

TribeFest participants came from 84 communities around the world. Most have reported getting increasingly involved in the community, including being active in their local Federations, and 96 percent said that they are very interested in attending the 2012 TribeFest.

TribeFest also innovated in the depth and number of partnerships involved. The inaugural event earlier this year included 46 organizations, from Rock the Vote, to Birthright Israel to Shemspeed, and the second edition is sure to include many partners as well.

TribeFest 2012 will also offer exciting opportunities for participants and partner organizations to help design this year’s TribeFest program (details to come soon).

Other new additions to the 2012 event include the host hotel, The Venetian in Las Vegas, which has graciously offered a special “TribeFest Rate” at a very affordable $109 plus tax per night.

To get involved or for more information, contact Lee'at Bachar:
LBachar@jfedstl.org or 314.442.3817

Please stay tuned for forthcoming details on TribeFest 2012 at:
www.TribeFest.org, which includes links to TribeFest on Facebook and Twitter.