About Festival Sefarad NYC
A Celebration of Sephardic Stories, Sounds, and Heritage
New York City is home to one of the most diverse and dynamic Jewish communities in the world. After the atrocities of October 7, the need for creating communal, intellectual, and cultural connections that bring all Jews together has never been greater. In response to this need, the American Sephardi Federation is proudly debuting Festival Sefarad NYC—a citywide, month-long celebration of the Greater Sephardi world. Featuring a variety o~f events with something for everyone—from musical performances and book talks, to exhibitions, tours, and Shabbat dinners—Festival Sefarad NYC will be the first festival of its kind in the U.S.A. Our Festival is inspired by and an homage to the CSUQ’s Festival Séfarad de Montréal, now in its 45th season.
At the heart of Festival Sefarad NYC is the 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival (NYSJFF). This unique cinematic celebration showcases premiere film screenings, exclusive artist conversations, and the Pomegranate Awards ceremony, recognizing Sephardic excellence in the arts.
In collaboration with over 40 leading communal institutions, Festival Sefarad NYC will unfold across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island, a movable feast ensuring accessibility and welcoming participation from every corner of the Jewish community.
With the support of the UJA-Federation of New York, Festival Sefarad NYC is more than a festival. It is a celebration of who we are, and who we can be together.
Presented by the American Sephardi Federation
The festival is curated and produced by the American Sephardi Federation (ASF), a nonprofit organization headquartered at the Center for Jewish History. ASF preserves, celebrates, and promotes the history, traditions, and experiences of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews as an essential part of the Jewish story and a vital component of the American and global Jewish future.
Co-Presented
UJA-Federation of New York is the world’s largest local philanthropy, serving both the Jewish community and New Yorkers of all backgrounds. It raises funds to support various social service, healthcare, educational, and community organizations in New York City, Westchester County, Long Island, Israel, and 60 other countries. UJA-Fed of NY’s mission focuses on caring for people in need, strengthening Jewish identity and community, and responding to crises both locally and globally.
Our 2025 Edition Includes:
- 27th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival
Screenings, premieres, and the Pomegranate Awards for Sephardi Excellence in the Arts - Concerts & Live Performances
Featuring acclaimed artists from around the Sephardic world - Culinary & Shabbat Experiences
Intimate meals, workshops, and gatherings led by chefs and community leaders - Talks, Panels & Book Events
With authors, historians, artists, and activists - Art, Music & Calligraphy Workshops
Interactive sessions for all ages