November 7 – 9, 2025
We’re thrilled for you to join as we celebrate Victoria becoming a Bat Mitzvah. Following are the details about her celebration weekend:
Venue
All events, including meals and religious services, will take place at the Hotel Sofitel, located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast.
Weekend Overview
A girl becomes a Bat Mitzvah when she turns twelve, at which time Jewish law considers her to be a woman, thus obligating her to follow the commandments (we have 613 of them!). It is indeed a time for celebration!
Victoria’s bat mitzvah celebration weekend revolves around the Jewish Sabbath (“Shabbat” or “Shabbos”), which is a time for rest, prayer, meals and togetherness from sundown Friday to an hour after sundown on Saturday.
Events starting with Shabbos dinner on Friday night and continuing through the Evening Service (“Ma’ariv”) late Saturday afternoon are optional and can be attended “à la carte”.
After Ma’ariv comes the Havdalah Service, to be led by Victoria, followed by hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner and dancing. Whatever you choose earlier in the day, we hope you will join us for these events.
Schedule of Events
Friday Evening
Kabbalat Shabbat Service: A brief service in the Cigale Room (Entry Level) to welcome the Sabbath.
Shabbos Dinner: A kosher meal at Café des Artistes (Entry level) for family and friends arriving by Friday evening.
Hospitality Suite
Throughout the weekend, visit the Hospitality Suite in the Limoges Room (Mezzanine level) to mingle with family and friends, enjoy a light breakfast, sandwiches, snacks, or drinks. Kosher choices will be available.
Saturday
Morning Service (“Shacharit”): Held in the Cigale Room (Entry level), followed by a light kiddush lunch in the Hospitality Room.
Afternoon: Unscheduled time to explore, rest, or relax as you wish.
Afternoon Service (“Mincha”)
Seuda Shlisheet (a very light third meal)
Evening Service (“Ma’ariv”)
Saturday Evening
Havdalah Service: Victoria will lead this special service marking the conclusion of Shabbos.
Cocktails, Dinner, and Dancing: Join us in the hotel’s Grand Ballroom for a festive evening. Activities for younger guests will be available.
Sunday Morning
Farewell Brunch: Enjoy a delightful brunch in Le Bar (entry level) as we conclude the weekend together.
