Photo by joelogon.

An alternative Jewish Christmas Eve party is threatening to give the Matzo Ball a run for its money this year.

Of course, it’s not the first time. In 2008, a popular New York-based party promised to fill up Love nightclub, before canceling their entire event just hours before go time. And for 16 years, the homespun Gefilte Fish Gala has gone on, usually on Christmas night, catering to a slightly tamer and older crowd. But in Washington, the original Matzo Ball still reigns as the grand daddy of its genre, a Christmas Eve meat-market cum dance party, high on awkward conversations and easy hookups.

On Friday night, the Falafel Frenzy — you gotta have a kitchy name — will be held at Local 16 at 1602 U Street NW. The event was conceived as a philanthropic and more relaxed alternative to the scene, crowds and high cost of the Matzo Ball. Organized by a team of young professionals active in the local community, and specifically the programs of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, all Falafel proceeds will be donated to the Federation for distribution to local anti-hunger programs.

“We wanted to make a difference and have an event that brings together like-minded people in a cool space with cheap drinks,” said Deborah Tobolowsky, one of three friends who conceived of the event.