Bar Mitzvah ideas? what should I get my friend?

Question

My male friend is having a Bar Mitzvah and I'm not sure:

1. What to where

2. What to give him as a gift

...Please help...

ADD ADIDITIONAL INFORMATION IF NEEDED!

Answer 1

First of all, is this a 13-year-old boy having a bar mitzvah celebration, or an older person?  I'll assume this is a boy and that you are about the same age as he is.

1.  Wear something clean, in good condition, neat, and more formal than your casual, everyday attire.  If you feel comfortable wearing a suit and tie, you may do so.  At the minimum, wear a nice shirt, khaki pants, or slacks -- not jeans.  It is better to be overdressed on such an occasion than under-dressed.  You may also ask one of your parents to ask one of his parents about the dress code.

2.  A gift should come from your heart, be appropriate to the occasion, and something you think your friend will like.  It sounds like you are not very knowledgeable about the Jewish faith, and so you may want to avoid religious gifts.  If you do an Internet search, you will find many websites that discuss gift ideas, etiquette, and other topics related to being a guest to a bar mitzvah celebration.  Money gifts and gift certificates are popular bar mitzvah gifts.  Gifts that are appropriate birthday gifts for a 13-year-old boy in general and something you think your friend might like are also good.

Answer 2

Well, that depends on the Bar Mitzvah and how orthodox they are, but I would suggest you wear a suit and give the kid whatever you think he'll want. If all else fails, give a nice card and a saving's bond. You can say you're investing in his future.