By Libby Herz
Nestled in the small town of Callicoon, New York, there lies a magnificent hotel called the Villa Roma. It brims with amenities such as an indoor pool, spa and Jacuzzi. But for the eight days of Pesach, it completely bursts with life. Once the kitchens are kashered and the vegetables peeled, the doors are opened wide. Faces light up. Children shriek with joy, and adults and teens greet friends they met last year, in this very spot, at FFH.
The FFH Pesach program is a collaboration between family friends – the Feldmans and Feigensons – an event producer, businessman, and caterer. They had always discussed joining forces to create a family friendly Lubavitch Pesach program. “One year we just went for it,” says Director Alyson Feldman. The first year was a huge success. The people wanted more.
The FFH Pesach destination is entering its ninth year. The Rav Hamachshir, Rabbi Eli Matasof, ensures exceptional kashrus standards from using only Lubavitch meat to carefully peeling vegetables.
Levi Feigenson and Table One Catering ensure that each course is a celebration of gourmet delicacies served to perfection. Each meal is better than the last, plentiful and fresh. The Table One team delivers a five star dining experience.
With guests hailing from diverse Jewish communities, FFH is not exclusive to Lubavitchers; daily minyanim are available for every nusach. Still, the halls brim with deep conversations about chassidus, often fueled by distinguished Lubavitch speakers and guest lecturers including Rabbi Shais Taub, Rabbi Mordechai Dinerman, Rabbi Getzy Markowitz, and Mrs. Shterni Althaus.
“Many people stay in touch with the rabbis throughout the year,” says Shloime Feldman.
The robust spirituality is matched by endless entertainment with non-stop chol hamoed adventures right on the premises. Choose from bowling, go-karting, bumper boating, and gaming. Then check out the rock walls, photo booths, bounce houses, and the ice cream store. Try your hand at Pickleball, Bocce ball, or Ping Pong, and then jump into the swimming pool, jacuzzi, or sauna.
Around the clock entertainment is top-notch, and includes music sensations from Shulem Lemmer to Yoni Z. Young children adore the day camp, and mothers spend quality time with their babies at the Mommy and Me.
Mothers who are kept busy tending to their households all year can finally relax. “It’s nice to see mothers wined and dined at the Pesach seder,” Mrs. Feldman says. “They can enjoy listening to their children with no worry about serving the next course and cleaning up after everyone.”
The program culminates on the final night of Pesach at The grand Moshiach seuda. “One year,” recalls Alyson, “a family from a small Lubavitch community attended the Moshiach seudah. They had never been exposed to so many Jews in one room, and were so overwhelmed by the ruchniyus and achdus that they had tears in their eyes.”
Pesach at FFH fosters strong bonds that stay with guests throughout the year. “People create life-long friends,” says Mrs. Feldman. “They request seats next to people they met the year before.” Participants return year after year, booking rooms months in advance. “The ultimate compliment,” Alyson says, “is the high rate of returning guests.”
With each passing year, the program evolves, perfecting an already exceptional experience. This year, FFH invites you to join them on a journey of spiritual growth, connection, and joy. If not in Jerusalem then in Callicoon, NY.
FFH is almost sold out for full stay spots for 2024.
Visit FFHEVENTS.COM
—
FFH Events
VILLA ROMA RESORT
356 VILLA ROMA ROAD
CALLICOON, NY 12723
877.681.6411
It looks like a nice atmosphere
you can ask them at info@ffhevents.com
BEST PROGRAM!!