How To Spend Passover 2017 With Friends

Despite the religious nature of Passover, it's actually one of the most open-faith holidays on the Jewish calendar. No only are non-Jews invited to celebrate, but many rabbis encourage Jewish families to invite non-Jewish friends and community members to their Passover seders. The goal, of course, is to encourage a stronger sisterhood and brotherhood between religious people of different backgrounds, and spread the Jewish culture through education and inclusion.

So if you were ever on the fence about having a Passover get together because your close friends are of differing religious backgrounds, let this be your deal maker. And if you're worried about subjecting your non-Jewish friends to an epically long seder that's too religiously infused for them to appreciate or participate in, know that you're free to freestyle.

If you plan on making your own Passover seder, you can start your own traditions that work for you and resonate with your belief system and interests outside of your family's traditions you're used to observing. Don't get overwhelmed by the idea of complicated hosting responsibilities, and don't hesitate any longer, send out an invite and start planning for what's sure to be your favorite new tradition. Here are a few suggestions for having your seder, your way this Passover.

Low-Key Passover Brunch

If taking on a full seder is too overwhelming for you, invite your friends over for a Passover brunch. You easily reimagine the traditional foods to fit a breakfast menu. You might want to consider avocado matzo toast and shakshuka.

Potluck Seder Plate

To get your friends involved in the seder, assign each person a different seder plate item and let them bring a dish that's inspired by it. That way you'll have tons of food going around, and won't be responsible for all of it!

The Plague Game

On a different piece of paper, write down each plague. Crumple the tabs up and put them into a bowl. Have each guest close their eyes and pick a plague. Then, tape it to their forehead. Throughout dinner, your friends can give each other clues so that they can guess which plague they are.

Matzo Bark DIY

Instead of making dessert ahead of time, invite your friends to make it with you. Melt different types of chocolate and dip matzo into it. You can add all sorts of toppings before you pop it in the fridge to settle.

Plague Dessert Bar

Choose different candies to represent the different plagues. Gummy bugs for lice, gummy frogs, gum balls for hail, Red Hots for boils — you get the picture!

The Prince Of Egypt

It's both entertainment and a history lesson. Pop on this classic movie as your guests arrive. Even if you just have it on in the background it will serve as a great ice breaker and noise filler.

Afikomen Hunt

The classic Passover ritual is a great after dinner game. Hide a piece of matzo somewhere in your home. The person to find it gets a prize. Foolproof fun!