Uganda 2026

Shabbat Hanukkah in Uganda 2026: An Inspirational Celebration of Light
December 1-13, 2026
Led by Rabbi Stewart Vogel

Join Hamakom for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey to Uganda
Hamakom invites you to an unforgettable 13-day East African adventure to visit the Abayudaya Jewish community of Uganda. Celebrate Shabbat Hanukkah with this vibrant community in the Mbale region, and experience firsthand the daily life, traditions, and spirit of Ugandan Jews.

Our journey will include:

• Visiting Jewish villages and schools throughout the region

• Baking challah with the community and exploring local markets

• Touring the synagogue and hearing personal stories about Jewish life in Uganda

• Experiencing the warmth of Jewish-Ugandan neighborly relations

• Lighting Hanukkah candles, savoring latkes, and sampling Ugandan holiday delicacies

Imagine the Hanukkah lights glowing under an African sky—a truly breathtaking celebration.

To complete our East African experience, the trip includes a safari in Kenya’s famous Masai Mara National Reserve, where we’ll witness the Big Five and immerse ourselves in the region’s incredible wildlife.

This journey will be led by Rabbi Vogel and coordinated by Cantor Mindy Harris (formerly of Temple Aliyah), ensuring a meaningful, expertly guided, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

View the trip itinerary here. 

Trip participants will need to fill out these three forms and email them to hamakomuganda2026@gmail.com.

• Registration Form
• Travel Waiver Form
• Terms and Conditions Form