When somebody says “Toronto,” Jewish historical past in all probability isn’t the very first thing that involves thoughts. Maybe you consider the Leafs, maple syrup, or the CN Tower. However the reality is, Toronto boasts a vibrant Jewish group and a wealthy Jewish historical past that stretches again to the nineteenth century.

Editor’s be aware: This text is a part of our sequence on journey guides to your favourite locations. Try our Vienna, Berlin, Budapest and Milan guides, and look out for guides to different cities coming quickly.

Toronto is called essentially the most multicultural metropolis on the earth, so it’s no shock that Jews of all denominations name it residence. In actual fact, half of all Canadian Jews reside in Toronto and town has numerous synagogues and Jewish day colleges of all denominations. 

So, in case you’re planning on visiting Toronto quickly or trying to find a journey vacation spot the place you may discover Jewish tradition and historical past, look no additional than this information.

What to see:

Kensington Market

On the floor, Kensington Market might seem to be a typical market neighborhood, however this space has a lot greater than meets the attention. Not solely is that this market the place Toronto’s Jewish historical past really shines, nevertheless it’s additionally an Instagram-worthy hotspot, recognized for its artwork scene, thrift buying, and cute cafes.

Kensington started as a Jewish market within the 1900s, the place retailers would promote items from their properties. 

In the present day, this space is residence to a various array of distributors that extends past the Jewish group. Nevertheless, it stays fascinating to stroll round and admire that Kensington’s attract originated from its Jewish heritage. Take your time strolling the streets and ensure to go to some outlets and synagogues within the space.

Beth Tzedec Congregation

Created in 1995 when two of the oldest synagogues in Toronto united, the Conservative synagogue Beth Tzedec now has over 4,000 members. 

The synagogue hosts Jewish music live shows, social motion gatherings, and occasions for contributors of all ages. Visiting right here, you may see the units from Adam Sandler’s 2023 movie, “You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah,” which was primarily filmed within the synagogue, making this a must-visit location.

Holy Blossom Temple

Based in 1856, Holy Blossom is Toronto’s oldest and arguably most well-known synagogue. They host group gatherings all year long, celebrating holidays and different occasions. 

For instance, in case you’re visiting throughout Hanukkah, you may attend the A number of Mild Household Chanukah Celebration or Chag Habanot: A Wine & Cheese Chanukah Celebration. Plus, in case you’re searching for a memento, there’s a Judaica present store throughout the synagogue. 

Though formally a Reform synagogue, Holy Blossom embraces each the normal and fashionable sides of Judaism, welcoming Jews of numerous beliefs and backgrounds.

Toronto Holocaust Museum

The Toronto Holocaust Museum opened its doorways in June 2023, making it the latest addition to Toronto’s checklist of Jewish points of interest. 

Go to the exhibit to be taught the historical past of the Holocaust, together with from a Canadian perspective. Except for the exhibit, the museum additionally hosts classes with survivors, lessons, and particular occasions.

The Toronto Holocaust Museum is run by the United Jewish Attraction of Better Toronto (UJA), which organizes numerous Jewish occasions all year long. So in case you’re nonetheless searching for issues to do, go to their web site for extra methods to get entangled.

Ontario Jewish Archives

In case you’re a historical past lover and wish to be taught extra about Toronto’s Jewish roots, cease by the Ontario Jewish Archives, which can be run by the UJA. 

Their varied restricted exhibitions make clear totally different chapters of Jewish historical past — some latest ones embody: “The Manor,” specializing in Jewish life in an space referred to as Bathurst Manor, and “Girls+” concerning the contributions of Ontarian Jewish ladies, previous and current. 

Earlier than your go to, examine the museum’s web site for present exhibitions, and prepare to be taught!

What to do:

Ashkenaz Pageant

This famend competition celebrates Ashkenazi Jewish tradition with music, meals, and artwork, going down biennially on the Harbourfront Centre in downtown Toronto. It’s a vibrant show of custom and creativity, drawing in a various crowd from all backgrounds and specializing in Yiddish tradition. Ashkenaz additionally hosts different occasions all year long, so examine their web site earlier than your journey.

Toronto Jewish Movie Pageant:

One of many metropolis’s most anticipated cultural occasions, the Toronto Jewish Movie Pageant showcases a variety of movies that discover Jewish life and historical past. 

It’s a wonderful alternative for movie lovers and people interested in Jewish tales from around the globe. A really distinctive and famend occasion, it’s price reserving your journey only for this competition.

How one can spend Shabbat

For a comforting group Shabbat, go to Chabad Lubavitch of Downtown Toronto or Chabad of Midtown. They welcome each guests and locals for Shabbat dinners and different particular occasions.

Alternatively, numerous Toronto synagogues host weekly Shabbat providers. Representing varied denominations, dozens of synagogues across the metropolis would like to have you ever.

The place to eat:

The kosher scene

A Center Japanese sit-down restaurant, Aish Tanoor is a must-visit for genuine, contemporary Israeli delicacies, whether or not or not you retain kosher. I recommend getting the falafel, and make sure to attempt a minimum of one dip with their freshly-made laffa.

In case you’re seeking a kosher bagel store, Bubby’s Bagels gained’t disappoint. They provide a variety of scrumptious choices, and for my part, it’s the perfect place in Toronto for a kosher breakfast. Particularly, in case you’re into tuna melts or pizza bagels, you’ve acquired to attempt these right here.

For a complete checklist of kosher eating in Toronto, try the COR web site.

Conventional Jewish-style fare

A Toronto staple, Bagel World has been serving among the metropolis’s greatest bagels for over 55 years. Sit down for lunch right here and also you’ll really feel proper at residence, or take out their well-known twisters and scrumptious Jewish pastries (the rugelach are particularly delectable).