Celebrating independence : 'Prince of Kosher Gospel' among draws at upcoming Jewish Festival
By NIKKI GREY, NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The 2011 Santa Barbara Jewish Festival attracted more than 5,000 attendees. This year, organizers expect the event to draw a larger crowd, in part because Joshua Nelson, "The Prince of Kosher Gospel," will perform.

April 21, 2012
Israeli dancing, singing and live entertainment will be among the activities this year at the 2012 Santa Barbara Jewish Festival.

And don't forget about the food! Think corned beef sandwiches, falafels, knishes, McConnell's kosher ice cream, beer and wine.

The free festival — which is expected to draw 5,000 to 7,000 attendees — promises to have something for everyone, according to Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara officials.

The event, which benefits programs in the Jewish community supported by the federation, will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29 at Oak Park, 300 W. Alamar Ave. It will celebrate Israel's 64th year of independence.

The festival will include a special address from a representative from the Israel Consul's office in Los Angeles on the significance of Israel's independence to not only the state of Israel but to Jews around the world, according to Michael S. Rassler, executive director of the federation.

Another highlight will be live entertainment, including singer Joshua Nelson, also known as "The Prince of Kosher Gospel."

"We've brought in national entertainment, Joshua Nelson, and that's a really big step for us to bring someone of his caliber to the Santa Barbara Jewish Festival," Mr. Rassler said. "We're very excited to bring him into the community."

A silent auction, which will include wines from local vineyards, golf packages, restaurant gift certificates, jewelry, summer camp discounts and more, will also take place. Mr. Rassler said everyone is welcome at the festival, Jewish or not.

"It's an opportunity for the entire community to share in the culture and heritage of the Jewish people," he said. "It's an opportunity to have fun and taste some of our unique cuisine, to laugh, to sing and be entertained and to share in the celebration of Israel's independence."

email: ngrey@newspress.com

IF YOU GO

The 2012 Santa Barbara Jewish Festival will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29 at Oak Park, 300 W. Alamar Ave. Admission is free. For more information, call the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara at 957-1115 or go to www.jewishsantabarbara.org.