The Vodka Latke, Tampa's annual Dec. 24 gathering for Jewish singles and young couples, will take place downtown this year at popular nightspot the Franklin Manor.
The event, open to people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, will include all you can drink from Tito's Handmade Vodka, appetizers and social dancing.
It's about bringing young Jewish adults together on Christmas Eve, a night they are looking for something fun to do, said Lisa Robbins, director of Young Adult Engagement for the Tampa Jewish Centers and Federation, which sponsors the event.
"We our focused on reaching the next generation," Robbins said. "They are the future leaders of our community."
Known as the Vodka Latke in Tampa, and the MatzoBall elsewhere, Jewish communities across the United States host singles events on Dec. 24. The Tampa evening attracts about 150 people each year. Tickets are 54 at the door.
"There are a lot of avenues for getting involved in Jewish life," Robbins said. "This is a purely social way of getting people together to form friendships and connections."
Jewish life today is different than 10, 20 and 30 years ago. Not everyone wants to belong to a synagogue. Or participate in the same way.
"We want to provide the younger generations with what they need," Robbins said. "They are looking to connect but are not necessarily interested in traditional Jewish institutions. This is an opportunity for networking, for getting involved in the community."
The Vodka Latke is put on by IMPACT, a community of young adults within the Tampa Jewish Federation and the Young Adult Division of the Jewish Federation of Pinellas-&-Pasco Counties. IMPACT participates in volunteer work and philanthropic projects throughout Tampa Bay. The group offers leadership training, social networking and other programs.
Dori Marlin and Thomas Stanton serve as co-chairs for this year's Vodka Latke event.
The invent generates a lot of buzz and often sells out, so purchasing tickets early is recommended.
There will be a cash bar, music by DJ Casper and popsicles courtesy of Hyppo.
Non-Jewish persons are also invited.
Franklin Manor is located at 912 N Franklin St. Event hours are 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets are available at jewishtampa.com/VodkaLatke.