One of the most anticipated events in a young Jewish person’s life is their bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah. It is an important milestone that symbolizes a child’s coming-of-age.

Once the boy (bar mitzvah) or girl (bat mitzvah) completes the necessary steps before their congregation, a reception is held in their honor where they are joined by family and friends. This reception usually takes place in the evening at a large event venue to accommodate anywhere from 100 to 400 guests (sometimes more).

If you are throwing a bar/bat mitzvah for your child or family member, planning the reception can be a huge undertaking since these celebrations include many of the child’s friends and family. From the location and theme to the food and drink menu, there is a lot to consider when planning a bar/bat mitzvah in Virginia.

Common Food Options for Children at Bar/Bat Mitzvahs

Although a bar/bat mitzvah celebrates the transition between childhood and adulthood, most of those in attendance will be children or teens. This means providing kid-friendly food options is a necessity when hosting a bar/bat mitzvah.

Depending on the theme of the bar/bat mitzvah (if there is one), you can get creative with the menu. Whether themed after a movie, fairy tale or the child’s favorite hobby, you can have fun with the food selection. Children are active by nature, so think of foods that are quick to grab and eat. Kids might not want to sit down or take the time to eat a full traditional meal, which is why a buffet-style spread of snacks and hors d’oeuvres are perfect for children at bar/bat mitzvahs.

It is common for bar mitzvahs or bat mitzvahs to have any of the following food choices for children:

• Mini hot dogs
• Mozzarella sticks
• Onion rings
• Pizza bagels
• Sliders
• Grilled cheese
• Popcorn
• Ice cream sundae bar
• Chocolate fountain
• Cotton candy

Beverage options for kids typically include soda, juice and water (or mocktails like the Shirley Temple for a more unique choice).

Common Food Options for Adults at Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs

While most of the population in attendance will likely be kids and teens, don’t forget about the adults. They deserve to enjoy themselves during the bar/bat mitzvah too.

Some bar/bat mitzvahs will set up the ballroom or event venue in a way that creates a clear distinction between the “kids' area” and the adult space. This helps to separate the food options and allows adults the freedom to socialize, eat and drink together without all the distractions of running and screaming children. Since adults will likely spend most of their evening surrounded by other adults, it is perfectly acceptable to offer plated meals or more traditional buffet-style options.

It is common for bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs to have any of the following food choices for adults:

• Lox
• Whitefish
• Pickled herring
• Gefilte fish
• Kippered salmon
• Sliced Chateaubriand with bordelaise sauce
• Baby Bibb lettuce topped with a vinaigrette
• Sushi bar
• Taco bar

It is acceptable to serve alcoholic beverages to adults at bar/bat mitzvahs such as wine, beer and cocktails (martinis are often a popular choice).

Looking For a Luxury Venue to Host a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah in Virginia? Schedule a Tour of CrystalView

Cherished Jewish celebrations like bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs often require lots of space and an impressive display of food, decorations, lights, dancing and more. Many Jewish congregations in Fairfax have held their bar and bat mitzvahs at CrystalView, one of Virginia’s most-desired luxury event venues.

From the catering to the dance floor and vendor coordination, our team of event specialists handle all the details for you, so you don’t miss out on your child’s important milestone.

If you are still searching for a venue to host your son’s bar mitzvah or your daughter’s bat mitzvah, we’d be happy to schedule a tour for you and answer any of your questions.