The Vilna Shul
We are a cultural center in a historic synagogue building in downtown Boston. Our mission is to spark excitement and curiosity about Jewish culture and our American immigrant story through vibrant and meaningful experiences.
Upcoming Events
Summer Cinematheque: Deli Man
There used to be a delicatessen on every corner. Now, you’ll only find a couple hundred across the U.S. Join us for a summer sandwich dinner and a screening of Deli Man, the documentary that...
Live Performance: Yoni Rechter Retrospective: One of Israel’s Greatest Voices
An evening of music and conversation with legendary Israeli composer and pianist Yoni Rechter, accompanied by top Israeli jazz musicians from Berklee.
Live Performance: Nightingale of Iran
Just as Queen Esther’s story is one of beauty in Iran, so is the story of Younes Dardashti—a religious Jew who despite all odds, became an Iranian national celebrity in the 1950s. In the 1960s,...
Culinary Workshop: Entremets with Fred Csibi-Levin
Did you know some early rabbinic authorities once declared turkey to be unkosher? Here at The Vilna, we’re embracing Thanksgiving turkey and celebration as a core part of what it means to be Jewish American....
Culinary Event: Beyond Bubbie’s Kitchen
Boston’s favorite Jewish food festival returns with top culinary talent sharing modern takes on traditional Jewish favorites.
Art Talk: The Art of Remembrance
In 2025, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) Judaica and Art of the Americas departments collaborated to acquire a painting by renowned painter Nathaniel Jacobson called “Bread of Affliction.” Nathaniel painted this in 1940...
Past Events
About The Vilna Shul
The Vilna Shul is the last immigrant-era synagogue building that exists in downtown Boston. Located in historic Beacon Hill, the Vilna currently operates as a cultural center celebrating Jewish culture and its intersection with other cultures. Join us for a program – we have films, authors, speakers, comedians, music and so much more! Check out our offerings on our website. We also offer education tours that provide the history of Jewish immigration to Boston and the history of the West End.
To arrange a tour, please email info@vilnashul.org.
Boston, MA, 02114
United States
(617) 523-2324