What exactly is a Shabbaton?

The Shabbaton is a spirited and uplifting weekend retreat filled with interactive workshops, exciting children's programs and delicious Shabbat meals, designed to capture the beauty and spirit of Shabbat. Together we will learn, grow, forge new friendships and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready for a magical weekend of spiritual rejuvenation, inspiration and community!

Where and when will the Shabbat Retreat take place?

This year, the Retreat will take place at the luxurious Radisson Hecla Resort, located in Hecla Provincial Park, from Friday afternoon, October 8 through Sunday noon, October 10.

Why did you choose the Radisson Hecla Resort to host the Shabbat Weekend Retreat?

The Radisson Hecla Resort is the ultimate getaway! This newly renovated, five-star resort is a great place to spend the weekend with family and friends. They were happy to accommodate our Kosher needs and have offered us very competitive pricing.

What are some of the hotel amenities?

The resort boasts a family water park, a full-service day spa and mineral pools, a health and wellness center, numerous scenic trails and the Hecla Golf Course, ranked first in the province and 26th in Canada.

How long does it take to get there?

The Radisson Hecla Resort is approximately a 2 hour drive North of Winnipeg.

Will transportation be provided?

Yes. A chartered bus is available, providing there is a minimum of 10 passengers, at a cost of $40 per person, round trip.

I am a non-observant Jew and I generally don’t keep Shabbat. Can I attend?

Absolutely, no questions asked! We don’t judge another person’s level of observance. This is your chance to experience a real Shabbat in a warm, welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

I belong to another Synagogue. Am I still invited?

Of course! The entire Jewish community is invited. Chabad-Lubavitch is a community based organization, dedicated to providing a Jewish experience for every individual from all walks of life in a non-judgmental way, regardless of background, affiliation, or level of commitment. Every Jew is considered a member.

Is the Shabbaton geared towards families with children only?

Not at all. There will be something for everyone. We encourage adults of all ages to participate, as well as families with children.

What is the cost for my family to participate?

The registration fee which includes the program, workshops, meals and snacks is $179 per couple (not including accommodations). There is an early bird registration fee of only $139.00. Children under 8 years of age are free. There is an additional fee of $29 per child for children ages 8 through 16, and $49 per child for children ages 16 and over. Please note: Accommodations must be arranged separately.

What is the cost for accommodations?

We have negotiated a deeply discounted rate with three upscale room selections to choose from. Starting at just $99 a night for a standard room, $109 for a superior room and $119 for the bedroom suite, each guest room is equipped with a double sized futon and a mini refrigerator. Additional cots are available at a nominal fee with a maximum capacity of four adults per room. Please visit www.heclaoasis.com or call 1.800.267.6700 for further details.

What programming is there for children and toddlers?

A warm and friendly staff will provide babies, toddlers and children with age-appropriate activities in a safe and nurturing environment, including a Kiddie camp, supervised playroom, Junior congregation and private babysitting (available at an hourly rate with prior arrangements). In addition, an exciting teen program will be offered.

What are some of the topics going to be addressed over the weekend?

To name a few: Resolving Conflict in Marriage, Jewish Woman in Jewish Law, Is Kosher Food Blessed By a Rabbi?, Shabbat: An Oasis in Time, The Sacred and the Sexual; Soul, Afterlife and Reincarnation, Noah and the Flood, Night Owl Dialogue with the Scholars, Quill and Ink: A Hands-On Exploration of the Jewish Scribal Arts, Jewish Mythbusters: The Top Myths about Traditional Judaism EXPOSED!.

I’ve never prayed before, will I be completely lost?

With running commentary and inspirational tidbits, our instructional Shabbat services provide a warm, meaningful experience for both the beginner and the veteran shul go-er.

What meals are provided?
From Friday night dinner through Sunday morning brunch, our Chefs have prepared homemade-style dishes with the freshest ingredients to provide you with a first class dining experience that will tantalize both body and soul. In addition, a hospitality suite with snacks and drinks, will be opened 24/7.

Please note: We will do our utmost to accommodate the needs of all guests with special dietary requirements. Please contact the retreat staff in advance to make arrangements at [email protected].

Will men and woman be seated separately during meals?
No. All meals will be family style seating so that you can spend precious time with family and friends.

Sounds like a plan. How do I register?
To register, please call our retreat staff at 414-5624 or visit our website at ChabadWinnipeg.org/Retreat and fill out the online application. Then, book your room directly with the hotel (www.HeclaOasis.com) by calling 1.800.267.6700 and mention Chabad, Block ID number 112200. Please note: space is limited so please make your reservation as soon as possible.

How can I get involved?
There are many volunteer spaces still open to help with various aspects of the Shabbaton. There are also sponsorship opportunities available. One example is that you can host a Shabbat table in honor of a yarhtzeit or birthday for just $250! Please contact us via email at [email protected] for more information.

We look forward to greeting you at the Shabbat Weekend Retreat this October. Prepare to be inspired!