Havdalah on the Porch
"It's like our own little Tanglewood Festival...
but Jewish and FREE!"
Havdalah on the Porch was born out of pandemic-era necessity but has blossomed into one of Temple Emanu-El’s most beloved and successful programs. Each summer, people of all backgrounds from across the GTA bring their lawn chairs to the front of Temple Emanu-El to enjoy a warm, welcoming evening of free live music, great friends, delicious ice cream, and a joyful, musical Havdalah sing-along. What is "Havdalah"? Click HERE.
Summer 2025 Lineup
This summer's Havdalah on the Porch series features an extraordinary lineup of artists, thanks to the generous support of the Judy Dan Fund for Arts and Education and the Temple Emanu-El Cantor's Discretionary Fund.
Rabbi Noam Katz
With the Temple Emanu-El Choir
May 24 • 7:00 pm
Back by popular demand! We’re thrilled to welcome Rabbi Noam Katz to kick off this year’s series. Noam — a celebrated musician, composer, Rabbi, storyteller, and educator — inspires Jewish and interfaith communities with his timeless melodies of peace, hope, and unity. His songs are sung in synagogues and camps across North America and beyond. Noam will be joined onstage by our wonderful Temple Emanu-El Choir. Learn more and register HERE.
The Toronto Jewish Chorus
Featuring: Amy Sky
June 21 • 7:00 pm
Canadian music icon Amy Sky joins the Toronto Jewish Chorus for an unforgettable evening! Amy’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies have uplifted audiences around the world. Founded in 2009 by Cantor Judy Adelman Gershon, the TJC has grown into one of Canada’s premier Jewish choirs. This is a night you won’t want to miss. Learn more and register HERE.
The Ladom Ensemble
July 5 • 7:00 pm
Making their Havdalah on the Porch debut, the Ladom Ensemble brings an electrifying mix of Ashkenaz and Klezmer traditions, Persian-influenced compositions, and beloved classical favourites. Featuring Temple Emanu-El-raised cellist Beth Silver alongside Michael Bridge (accordion), Poya Hamidi (piano), and Adam Campbell (percussion), Ladom promises a vibrant, boundary-crossing musical experience. Learn more and register HERE.
Klezmer!
Aug 16 • 7:00 pm
A fan favourite returns! Our annual Klezmer night features the dynamic Lightstone/Katz Klezmer Trio: Jonno Lightstone, Brian Katz, and Michael Herring. Bring your dancing shoes!Learn more and register HERE.
Emanu-El & Har Zion All-Stars
Havdalah & Selichot
Sep 13 • 7:00 pm
We’re teaming up with Temple Har Zion for a grand season finale featuring outstanding talent from both congregations, followed by Selichot services. Learn more and register HERE.
Top wide photo and this photo courtesy of Josh Nezon Photography.
Your Support is Appreciated
We are thrilled to open Havdalah on the Porch to the entire Toronto Jewish community free of charge. If you are able to help support this and our other excellent musical programming, please consider a donation. To make a donation in honour of Temple Emanu-El's musical programming, click HERE.
You can also help just by spreading the word to friends, family and your social media community.
Thank you... and see you soon!
