
Shabbat is a Gift · Be Present · Keep It Together
In an official presidential proclamation marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the President has called on Jewish Americans to observe a national Shabbat from sunset Friday, 15 May to nightfall Saturday, 16 May.
In over 3,300 years of Jewish history, no head of state has ever officially recognized Shabbos in this way and called on Jews across an entire nation to keep it.
Now it’s our turn to answer that call.
The Shabbos Project proudly stands behind this extraordinary proclamation and is committed to helping make this national Shabbat a moment of unity, pride, inspiration, and Jewish connection across the United States.
Not sure where to start? Our guide and toolkit have practical preparation tips, simple step-by-step instructions, blessings, prayers, and clear guidance to make Shabbos meaningful, accessible, and uplifting.
Everything you need to prepare and experience a meaningful Shabbat - from candle lighting to havdalah.
Shareable assets, host kits, and resources to inspire your family, friends and community to join the national Shabbat.
Shabbos was given as a mitzvah to the Jewish people 3,338 years ago at Sinai.
Switch on your life.
For one day, set down the noise of the world and pick up something older, deeper, and more alive - a 25-hour gift waiting to be opened.


The Shabbat Project began in South Africa in 2013, founded by Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein. What started as a single national Shabbat has grown into a global movement, driven by volunteers who invite their families, friends, communities and entire cities to keep Shabbos together.
The Shabbos Project is embraced by Jews of every background, affiliation and level of observance. It is not about rules. It is about presence. About joy. About togetherness. And about each of us taking a step, however big or small, toward opening the gift.
“I have a wonderful gift in My treasure house, and Shabbat is its name.”

Sunset Friday, 15 May to nightfall Saturday, 16 May. Wherever you are. Whoever you are. Keep it together.
Inspiration, stories, and everything you need to prepare for the historic national Shabbat - straight to your inbox.