Kibbitz & Konnect to Host Pre-Valentine’s Shabbat Dinner

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the cultural drumbeat of roses, reservations, and romantic expectations grows louder. For many singles, the holiday can feel less like a celebration and more like a spotlight. That’s where community — and a little humor — can make all the difference.

Kibbitz & Konnect, the premier in-person social network for Atlanta Jewish singles started in June 2022, was created with exactly that spirit in mind. Rooted in Jewish values of connection, warmth, and shared experience, Kibbitz & Konnect brings Jewish singles together not just to date, but to belong. It’s about showing up as you are, sharing a laugh, and remembering that meaningful connection comes in many forms — friendship, community, spirituality, and yes, romance when it’s meant to happen.

On Thursday, Feb. 13, Kibbitz & Konnect will host a Pre-Valentine’s Shabbat Dinner at Congregation Or Hadash, offering an alternative to the pressure of Valentine’s Day itself. Shabbat, after all, is Judaism’s weekly reminder to pause, unplug, and connect — with ourselves and with one another. Around the table, conversation flows more easily, barriers soften, and strangers often become friends by dessert.

For single people, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be something to “get through.” It can be reframed as a moment to honor self-love, community love, and the belief that no one’s timeline is behind. Being single is not a placeholder; it’s a season rich with growth, freedom, and possibility. The healthiest relationships — romantic or otherwise — begin with feeling whole, not rushed.

Handling Valentine’s Day as a single person can be as simple as choosing intention over comparison. Spend time with people who make you feel seen. Celebrate small joys. Say yes to spaces where connection is encouraged and vulnerability is welcome.

Whether you arrive hopeful, hesitant, or somewhere in between, Kibbitz & Konnect’s Pre-Valentine’s Shabbat Dinner offers a reminder: love isn’t limited to couples, and connection doesn’t have to wait until Feb. 14!

Happy hour with wine and appetizers will begin at 6 p.m., followed by services at 6:30 p.m., and dinner at 7:45 p.m. Services are optional. Vegetarian entree option is available upon advance request. Seating will be by age group. Please RSVP early so we can get an accurate headcount to our caterer. Tickets are $36 until Feb. 10 and will go up to $50 on Feb. 11. Special thanks to our sponsors Cohen Orthodontics. RSVP today at www.kibbitzkonnect.org.