If you’re going to Mercer Island’s Stroum Jewish Community Center (SJCC) on the afternoon of Saturday Nov. 15, plan on leaving your phone at the door.

The SJCC is offering a new, free program that encourages families to limit screen time and connect with family and community members: Shabbat Unplugged.

“It’s not necessarily a religious experience. It’s a cultural opportunity, and a chance to build community and be together,” said SJCC program director Zach Duitch. “We have a basket at the registration desk and ask people to leave their cell phones, tablets or any other pieces of technology.”

Shabbat is the Jewish Sabbath, which begins at sundown every Friday and ends when three stars are visible on Saturday night, though different communities have varied ways of interpreting it, Duitch said.

Essentially, it’s a day of rest. Though a Jewish concept, Shabbat has universal implications, Duitch said.

“It’s a good opportunity to take a break,” he said. “Everyone could use a little more Shabbat in their lives.”

During Shabbat Unplugged, the SJCC offers a variety of activities, including family yoga, swimming, an obstacle course, storytelling and arts and crafts.

The event concludes with a song session with musician Eli Rosenblatt in the recently renovated SJCC auditorium.

All are welcome, including people who are not Jewish or not members of the SJCC.

Shabbat Unplugged aims to create meaningful, low-barrier programs, especially for those who have never celebrated or rarely celebrate Shabbat.

The program was piloted earlier this year, and three events over the summer had about 50-75 participants, Duitch said. He said he would love to see 100 people turn out, though there’s a capacity for more.

“Everyone’s tapped in all the time,” Duitch said. “This gives families an opportunity to unplug from technology … and give their undivided attention to each other for two hours.”

Shabbat Unplugged events will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Nov. 15, Dec. 6 and Jan. 10 at the SJCC.