New York’s biggest picnic is coming to Governors Island with iconic Jewish food and unexpected chef collabs

L’chaim! A brand new, massive Jewish food festival is coming to New York City this summer, a one-day-only event huge in scale and flavor.

The Great Nosh, dubbed as New York’s biggest picnic, will take place on Governors Island on Sunday, June 22, featuring food and beverage from iconic Jewish restaurants across the city, intriguing and unexpected culinary collabs (Thai Diner x Katz’s Deli! Gertrude's x Dhamaka!), plus cultural activities like jewelry-making with Lower East Side beading queen Susan Alexandra. 

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Presented by the Jewish Food Society and co-sponsored by several Jewish organizations, including UJA Federation New York, Schusterman Family Philanthropies and Pershing Square Philanthropies, the nonprofit’s founder Naama Shefi was inspired by picnics she grew up enjoying on her kibbutz (a communal village in Israel), and New York’s outdoor spaces. “I love our city’s community gardens and parks and wanted to recreate this type of magic on a larger scale,” Shefi says.  “Jewish culture and NYC food are so deeply intertwined. The Great Nosh is a new space that celebrates that history and connection, where we can step out of our daily routine and enjoy good food, wine, music, art and relaxed time with friends.” 

Running from 11am to 4pm, The Great Nosh will be a five-hour brunch celebration including pop-ups of iconic New York establishments, interactive culinary demos, live music, a Grandmas Tent hosted by Gail Simmons and chef Pati Jinich, a wine bar by The Four Horseman and much more. 

“All 12 pop-ups celebrate friendships within the culinary community and many feature unexpected creations drawing on NYC staples that will introduce a completely new take on these dishes,” Shefi says. “My friend Zoe Kanan of Elbow will partner with her neighbor Sunny Lee of Sunn’s on a vegetable-forward banchan bialy with smoky eggplant and zucchini. I love how Sunny and Zoe represent their mutual appreciation of Jewish traditions and are bringing to life Korean and Jewish flavors in the most delicious and thoughtful way.”

More highlights include a special “schnitz & chips” with tahini ketchup and amba by Laser Wolf’s Mike Solomonov and Ed Szymanski from Dame, plus ice cream treats by Russ and Daughters and Morgenstern's. 

“I’m proud to live in a city with such rich and vibrant Jewish history and culture that is part of the city’s fabric. Now, more than ever, it’s important to come together and celebrate Jewish culture in a way that fosters connection, understanding, and joy. The Great Nosh is about pride, resilience, and sharing heritage in an open and welcoming way. It’s a chance to reinforce the power of community and to invite all New Yorkers to engage with Jewish food and culture in a dynamic and celebratory setting.” Shefi says. “I hope that our guests will get inspired by the diversity and the creativity of the many culinary traditions, old and new, showcased at The Great Nosh.” 

Tickets to The Great Nosh cost $36 via Eventbrite and include a picnic blanket, reusable utensils, and complimentary water. All concessions will be available for purchase via credit card. All ages are invited!