As the High Holidays of 5785 approach, finding affordable and meaningful services can be a challenge. ChiTribe has compiled the best deals across Chicago for a range of denominations and service styles. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Orthodox experience, a relaxed Reform service, or something in between, there’s a place for everyone. Most of these organizations are also willing to work with individuals who need financial assistance, so feel free to reach out directly if cost is a concern.
This “Special Best Deals Guide” compiled by Matt Weil, ChiTribe Board Member and Calendar Manager
Reform, Best Deal in Town: Temple Sholom
Cost: $80 for non-members ages 21-35 ($300 for non-members 36+)
Services Offered: Rosh Hashana Eve (RHE), Rosh Hashana Day 1 (RH1), Rosh Hashana Day 2 (RH2), Kol Nidre (KN), Yom Kippur (YK)
Additional Perks: Includes Kol Nidre dinner for attendees ages 21-35 (valued at $50)
Conservative: Anshe Emet
Cost: $154 for non-members ages 22-36 ($1600 for non-members 37+)
Services Offered: RHE, RH1, RH2, KN, YK
Unique Features: Tefilla Yoga and a recorded conversation with author Dara Horn during Yom Kippur Break
[Virtual] Conservative: Central Synagogue of Chicago
Cost: Online access available with a contribution of any amount
Services Offered: RH1, RH2, KN, YK
Format: Online only
Orthodox, Best Inclusive Deal: Anshe Sholom B’nai Israel 20s & 30s
Cost: $440 for non-members
Services Offered: RHE, RH1, RH2, KN, YK
Additional Features: Mikvah available morning before Kol Nidre ($25 for males), includes Break Fast dinner
Orthodox, Most Efficient: Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob
Cost: Free
Services Offered: 1-hour service on RH1 and YK afternoons
Format: Short and sweet, ideal for those with busy schedules
Chabad: Bucktown Wicker Park Chabad Jewish Center
Cost: $108 suggested donation for adults
Services Offered: RHE, RH1, RH2, KN, YK
Additional Perks: RHE rooftop dinner ($25 additional), RH1 buffet brunch, and Break Fast dinner
Chabad: Shofar Around the Neighborhood
Cost: Free
Services Offered: 15-minute outdoor services on RH1 in various locations (Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, Humboldt Park)
Format: Quick, convenient, outdoor “Slacker Service” (their words, not ours)
Reconstructionist: Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation
Cost: $18 for non-members ages 18-36 ($396 for non-members 37+)
Services Offered: RH1, RH2, KN, YK
Unique Feature: Shofar Walk on Rosh Hashanah Eve
Jewish Renewal: Makom Shalom Mitziut
Cost: $50 per service, $150 max
Services Offered: RHE, RH1, KN, YK
Additional Perks: Free Yizkor/Mincha/Neilah services followed by a Break Fast buffet
Lay-led Minyan: Nichols Park Minyan
Cost: FREE
RSVPs very helpful for planning purposes, but not required.
Service Offered: RHE, RH1, KN, YK
Rosh Hashanah morning 2: Friday, October 4, 8:45AM-1:30PM followed by BYO/Potluck picnic lunch
Whether you’re seeking something affordable, spiritual, or both, these options offer a range of experiences to celebrate the High Holidays this year. Check out each organization pages on our website for registration and more details.
