Planning a Guinness World Record is no small task — especially when it’s a Shabbat dinner meant to bring people together in a celebration of culture, unity, and tradition. For community organizer Daniel Rosen, the dream took shape years ago: to host the world’s largest Shabbat dinner, one that would not only set a global record but also showcase the beauty of Jewish heritage.
His team spent months coordinating logistics, securing sponsorships, preparing food, and ensuring every detail aligned with Guinness guidelines. It was a labor of love, driven by a desire to create an unforgettable gathering that would unite people from different walks of life under one long table.
But just when Rosen’s achievement had started making its way into headlines, news broke that another group had surpassed his record, hosting an even larger Shabbat dinner shortly after his historic event.
And yet, Rosen insists—with a smile—that he isn’t bitter.
“I planned the first Guinness record-breaking Shabbat dinner,” he says. “I promise I’m not too bitter about being beaten. If anything, I’m proud that something I started has grown into a global celebration.”
A Celebration of Faith and Community
Rosen’s event, held in New York City, had brought together thousands of participants—families, students, elders, and international guests. Long tables stretched across a decorated hall, filled with challah, wine, traditional dishes, and heartfelt conversation. The atmosphere, he recalls, was “pure magic.”
From singing traditional songs to sharing stories of identity and belonging, the night left a lasting mark on attendees and revived interest in large-scale cultural gatherings. The event even sparked similar record attempts worldwide as communities embraced the idea of celebrating Shabbat on a monumental scale.
Being Surpassed — and Being Proud
When Rosen learned that his record had been overtaken, he admits he felt a pinch of disappointment—but mostly pride. “Records are made to be broken,” he laughs. “What matters is that more people are connecting, celebrating, and expressing their culture. That was always the goal.”
He also acknowledges the inspiration behind the movement: creating unity in a time when the world feels increasingly divided. Whether his event holds the record or not, Rosen believes the impact will endure far longer than any certificate.
