[Video below.] As the United States gears up for nationwide events marking the country’s 250th anniversary, the White House held a special reception Friday honoring Shabbos as part of a broader national emphasis on faith and religion.

The gathering was connected to “Rededicate 250,” a large-scale faith initiative taking place this weekend on the National Mall in conjunction with America’s semiquincentennial celebrations. President Donald Trump had called for Shabbos observance to be included in the wider commemoration of religion’s role in American life.

The event was held shortly before the onset of Shabbos in the historic Indian Treaty Room at the White House, one of the executive mansion’s best-known ceremonial halls. The reception drew senior administration officials and White House staff members and coincided with the return of an official delegation from China.

The program lasted approximately one hour and concluded in time for attendees to return home before Shabbos began. Participants described the atmosphere as respectful and uplifting, noting the appreciation shown for Jewish traditions and observance.

One of the evening’s central features was a display of a traditional Shabbos table showcasing classic Shabbos foods and ritual items. Social media personality and activist Emily Austin participated in a symbolic candle-lighting presentation after being asked by both White House officials and her mother, who, for the first time in 25 years, was unable to light candles herself.

Organizers emphasized that the candle-lighting demonstration took place before Shabbos officially began and was intended solely as a public illustration of the mitzvah. They described the moment as a major Kiddush Hashem.

Attendees received commemorative copies of a special proclamation along with a Shabbos handbook prepared for the event by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute. The materials included a specially designed “Shabbat 250” logo incorporating the number 250 into the artwork.

After the White House reception concluded, guests proceeded to nearby Decatur House, the historic White House museum adjacent to the executive complex, where a full Shabbos meal was served. Both events featured glatt kosher cuisine and wine, and attendees were introduced to various Shabbos customs and traditional foods.

Remarks during the evening were delivered by Martin Marks, Special Assistant to the President and White House liaison to the Jewish community, who discussed the significance of recognizing Jewish faith and observance during the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Executive Vice President of American Friends of Lubavitch (Chabad), who also organized the Shabbos dinner, addressed the gathering as well.

Those who attended said the event reflected a deep respect for Yiddishkeit during a time when America is spotlighting the importance of faith in public life as part of the country’s milestone anniversary observances.

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