Sababa Smash Brought Israeli Beach Culture to San Diego

This summer, Jewmanity brought a little piece of Israel to San Diego with Sababa Smash, a free community event filled with Israeli beach games, food, music, and connection.

Held at Mission Bay Mariners Point on July 16, Sababa Smash brought kids, families, and members of our community together for a morning inspired by the energy and spirit of Israel’s beaches.

The day began with Matkot, the iconic paddle game played up and down the beaches of Israel. Participants learned how to play before putting their new skills to the test in a fun and friendly competition.

We also played backgammon (sheshbesh) and filled the morning with music, prizes, swag, and plenty of time for everyone to hang out and enjoy being together by the water.

And of course, we had great food! Burekas Box San Diego provided delicious Israeli-inspired food, and Solely Fruit Snacks helped keep everyone fueled with snacks throughout the event.

Sababa Smash was made even more special through our collaborations with House of Israel San Diego and Youth Action Movement San Diego. Bringing local organizations together allowed us to reach more families and create an event that truly felt like a celebration of community.

But Sababa Smash was about much more than games.

At Jewmanity, we believe that some of the strongest connections happen when people simply come together. Creating joyful, welcoming experiences gives our community an opportunity to meet one another, build friendships, celebrate Jewish and Israeli culture, and feel a greater sense of belonging.

There was something incredibly special about watching kids learn a game so closely associated with Israel, seeing families spending the morning together, and experiencing our San Diego community connecting in such a relaxed and joyful setting.

Sababa Smash was exactly what we hoped it would be: fun, energetic, a little competitive, and filled with community.

The event was offered completely free of charge as part of Jewmanity’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences that strengthen connection and belonging.

We are incredibly grateful to House of Israel San Diego, Youth Action Movement San Diego, Burekas Box San Diego, Solely Fruit Snacks, and everyone who participated, volunteered, donated, and helped make Sababa Smash such a memorable day.

We can’t wait to smash again.💙

Follow @jewmanity_ for upcoming events and more ways to get involved.