Tu B’Shevat offers the opportunity to explore nature, ecology, and environmental responsibility in the context of Judaism. Even if it takes place in cold weather, Tu B’Shevat is a reminder that spring is just around the corner. This holiday grounds us, literally, in our tradition’s strong connection with earth’s wonders, while also reminding us that spring’s blossoms are right around the corner.
Need an easy way to celebrate Tu B’Shevat? Organize a hike or nature walk with some other families. Here are our tips for organizing a Tu B’Shevat walk with friends:
Call your friends
Apply for a Get Together
Pick a trail or route
Take a look at local (or local-ish) hiking trails and map out a route that feels comfortable for everyone. No trails nearby? Stroll through your city and visit the local parks. On your walk take a beat to check out the various trees. See if you can identify any of the trees you pass while on your stroll.
Say a blessing
In Jewish tradition, there’s a blessing we can say when we see a beautiful tree. It goes like this:
Hebrew: Baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha’olam, shekacha lo be’olamo.
English: Dear God, Creator of our world, thank you for making a world filled with special things. Alternate: We’re grateful for special things in the world, like this tree.
Stay indoors if it’s too cold
Too cold to walk outside? Draw a few pictures of trees, then use them as your family enjoys one or more of the discussion topics included in the “Tree Walk” guide from A Time to Hope. You can also put on our Tu B’Shevat playlist and move around the living room. The kids can pretend they’re leading a hike on an “imagination vacation,” while the grownups get their steps in.
Host and enjoy
If you’d like, PJ Library will even help you cover the costs of your adventure. Visit the Get Together page to learn more.
More
A Time to Hope: PJ Library’s Guide to Sigd, Hanukkah, Tu B’Shevat and Purim
Get to Know the Holiday of Tu B’Shevat With These Seven Stories
Host a Tu B'Shevat Seder
January 2, 2025