Students in the Class of 2029, this is what you should do before you move-in:

  • Text the Cha-bot and introduce yourself: Meet our friendly Cha-bot — your go-to for all things Chabad! It’s how we share updates, events, and where you’ll RSVP all semester long. Joining is easy — just text "Shalom" to 314-886-6111.

All students who sign up with the Cha-bot before August 1, will get a special gift!

  • Join JewCrew: JewCrew is a chill way for first-year Jewish students to connect in small-group settings—led by JewSAs (upperclassman), with events, hangouts, and a group chat. It’s the perfect intro to Jewish life at WashU. Click here to learn more and sign up.

You're invited: Move-in Shabbat for new students, parents, and families

Celebrate move-in weekend with a full Shabbat experience of meals, services, and connection. Students will meet new friends and mentors; parents can connect with other WashU families and the Chabad Team.

Friday, August 15

Candlelighting & Davening at 6:00 pm
Welcome Shabbat Dinner at 7:00 pm
Chabad House, 7018 Forsyth Blvd (steps from the South 40)

Parents and families: RSVP here for Shabbat dinner. (New students should register using the Cha-bot.)

We expect hundreds of guests to join us for Shabbat dinner, and we’ve invited Chancellor Andrew D. Martin and other university leaders to join —  a powerful moment at the start of the school year. 

Friday night dinner at Chabad is the largest weekly event for Jewish students and a consistent highlight of campus life. Each and every week during the academic year, hundreds of students gather to celebrate Shabbat as a community. It’s a vibrant and inclusive space where students of all backgrounds feel at home — from those just beginning to explore their heritage to those who’ve kept Shabbat their whole lives. Everyone has a seat at the table.

We hope you choose to join us!

Students: If you have a Friday night dorm meeting, ask your RA to be excused so you can attend a Jewish event. 

Shabbat Day, August 16

Morning Services at 10:00 am
Open House Shabbat Lunch from 12:00 pm—1:30 pm
Chabad House, 7018 Forsyth Blvd (steps from the South 40)

Parents and families: RSVP here for Open House Shabbat Lunch. No fee. New students, use the Cha-bot.

Shabbat lunch on Saturday is more relaxed — an open-house-style meal with plenty of food and friendly faces. While some of the more observant students choose to attend activities at Hillel, Chabad remains open and welcoming to all, offering a come-as-you-are experience of warmth and hospitality.

Welcome Week Schedule for Students: Bear Beginnings

  • Subs, Schmooze & Axe Throwing! Sunday, August 17 | 5:00–6:30 pm | Chabad House
    Get ready for the ultimate welcome bash! Grab a sub, toss an axe, and dive into lawn games with 100+ future besties. Free dinner, epic giveaways, and nonstop vibes — don’t miss it.

  • Popsicle Pop-Up: Monday, August 18, time TBD on the South 40. Rain date TBD.

  • Falafel Fest / Meet the Israel Fellow: Wednesday, August 20 | 5:00–6:30 pm | Chabad House
    Come meet our new Israel Fellow and connect with students who share your love for the Holy Land. Whether you’re Israeli-born, just back from Israel, or simply curious — this one’s for you. All are welcome!

  • The Official Pre-Classes Shabbat Dinner: Friday, August 22 | Davening at 6:00 pm · Dinner at 7:00 pm | Chabad House
    Kick off the year with a warm, home-cooked Shabbat and a full house of new faces and old friends. Unwind, reconnect, and start your semester with soul. You’ll RSVP using the Cha-bot — don’t wait, spots fill fast!

  • Post-Convocation Havdala on the East End: Saturday evening, August 23, around 8:30 pm.

  • JewBQ: Monday, August 25, afternoon, exact time TBA | A first-day-of-classes tradition! Join Chabad and Hillel on the Lien-Gregg Porch for good food, great vibes, and a warm campus welcome.

Other resources

  • Do you find large-scale events overwhelming? Or do you just want a few minutes of quiet time to chat with the Rabbi or our team? We love meeting parents and/or new students. Book a private time slot here so we can give you our full attention.

  • To purchase a Mezuzah, please complete this form.

  • Need a mechanical Shabbat key? This should be an option on the housing portal. If you don't see it please message Rabbi Hershey.

  • Please confirm that the Eruv is up before carrying in a public space on Shabbat.

Coming up