Tag: jewish-festivals

The Quickest Guide to Jewish Holidays in 2025

The Quickest Guide to Jewish Holidays in 2025

As the year 2025 approaches, Jewish communities worldwide eagerly anticipate the arrival of their cherished holidays. These time-honored traditions not only commemorate significant historical events but also serve as a vibrant tapestry that weaves together faith, culture, and communal celebrations. From the joyous festival of Hanukkah to the reflective period of Yom Kippur, each holiday holds a profound meaning and a unique set of traditions that have been passed down through generations.

One of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays is Pesach, commonly known as Passover. This eight-day festival marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. During Pesach, Jewish families gather to share a traditional Seder meal, which includes symbolic foods such as matzah (unleavened bread) and maror (bitter herbs). The Seder is a rich and engaging ritual that retells the story of the Exodus and reminds participants of the importance of freedom and perseverance. Passover is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the renewal of faith.

Another significant Jewish holiday is Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Observed over two days in the autumn, Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a period of introspection and repentance. During Rosh Hashanah, Jewish communities gather in synagogues for special prayers and services. The sounding of the shofar (ram’s horn) is a central part of the Rosh Hashanah liturgy, symbolizing a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s presence in the world. The holiday is also a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of New Year’s greetings and well wishes.

Rosh Hashanah Observance 2025

Observance Dates

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a two-day holiday commemorating the creation of the world and the renewal of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. In 2025, Rosh Hashanah will begin on Wednesday evening, September 24, and end on Friday evening, September 26.

The first day of Rosh Hashanah is known as Yom Teruah, “the Day of Blowing the Shofar.” On this day, observant Jews attend synagogue services where the shofar, a ram’s horn, is blown 100 times. The shofar’s piercing sound is a symbol of awakening and repentance.

The second day of Rosh Hashanah is known as Yom Hazikaron, “the Day of Remembrance.” On this day, observant Jews attend synagogue services and recite special prayers known as the “Unetaneh Tokef.” These prayers reflect on the year that has passed and the challenges that lie ahead.

Rosh Hashanah is also a time for family gatherings and festive meals. Traditional foods include apples dipped in honey, symbolizing a sweet new year, and round challah bread, representing the cycle of life.

Customs and Traditions

In addition to the religious observances, there are a number of customs and traditions associated with Rosh Hashanah. These include:

Custom Significance
Tashlich Casting bread crumbs into a body of water to symbolize the casting away of sins
Tekiyah Gedolah A particularly long and loud blast of the shofar at the end of Yom Teruah
New Year’s Greetings Wishing others a happy and sweet new year (Shanah Tovah U’Metukah)

Yom Kippur Fasting Dates 2025

Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, is a day of fasting and atonement. In 2025, Yom Kippur will begin on the evening of September 28th and end on the evening of September 29th.

Fasting Times

The fast of Yom Kippur begins at sunset on the day before and ends at nightfall on the day of Yom Kippur. During this time, observant Jews abstain from food, drink, and other bodily pleasures. The following table provides the fasting times for Yom Kippur 2025:

Location Fast Begins Fast Ends
Jerusalem 6:47 PM 7:43 PM
New York City 6:56 PM 7:52 PM
London 6:24 PM 8:26 PM

Sukkot Celebration Times 2025

Sukkot is an eight-day Jewish holiday that celebrates the Israelites’ journey through the desert after they were freed from slavery in Egypt. The holiday is also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths.

Sukkot begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually falls in September or October. The holiday lasts for seven days in Israel and eight days outside of Israel.

Celebration Times for Sukkot 2025

Start Date End Date
September 22, 2025 September 29, 2025

The first two days of Sukkot are considered to be holy days, and work is prohibited. The remaining days of the holiday are considered to be semi-holy days, and work is permitted but not encouraged.

During Sukkot, Jews build temporary shelters called sukkahs. These sukkahs are used for eating, sleeping, and relaxing. They are decorated with fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Sukkot is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the harvest. It is also a time to reflect on the Israelites’ journey through the desert and their dependence on God.

Hanukkah Candle Lighting Schedule 2025

Day 1

Sunday, December 7, 2025

Light 1 candle

Day 2

Monday, December 8, 2025

Light 2 candles

Day 3

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Light 3 candles

Day 4

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Light 4 candles

Eat latkes and jelly doughnuts

Play dreidel games

Give gifts to children

Sing Hanukkah songs and light the menorah

Day 5

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Light 5 candles

Day 6

Friday, December 12, 2025

Light 6 candles

Day 7

Saturday, December 13, 2025

Light 7 candles

Day 8

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Light 8 candles

Purim Feasting and Merriment 2025

Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to exterminate them. The holiday is celebrated with feasting, merriment, and the giving of gifts.

Purim Meals

Purim meals are typically festive and include traditional foods such as:

  • Hamantaschen: Triangular pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings
  • Kreplach: Fried or boiled dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
  • Gefilte fish: A traditional Ashkenazi Jewish dish made from ground fish

Purim Delicacies

In addition to traditional meals, Purim is also associated with a variety of delicacies, including:

  • Purim kugel: A sweet noodle pudding
  • Purim strudel: A pastry filled with sweet cheese or fruit
  • Purim cookies: A variety of cookies decorated with Purim symbols

Purim Gifts

It is customary to give gifts on Purim, and these gifts often include:

  • Money
  • Food
  • Clothing

Purim Festivities

In addition to feasting and merriment, Purim is also celebrated with a variety of festivities, including:

  • Carnival games
  • Costume parties
  • Live music

Purim 2025 Observance

Purim 2025 will begin on the evening of March 7th and conclude on the evening of March 8th.

Date Day
March 7th Fast of Esther
March 8th Purim

Shavuot Study and Reflection 2025

Counting the Omer

The Omer is a 49-day period of counting that begins on the second night of Passover and ends on the day before Shavuot. Each day, we count the days and weeks that have passed since the Exodus from Egypt. The Omer is a time for reflection and preparation for receiving the Torah on Shavuot.

The Seven Weeks

The Omer is divided into seven weeks. Each week has a different theme:

Week Theme
1 Chesed (Lovingkindness)
2 Gevurah (Strength)
3 Tiferet (Beauty)
4 Netzach (Victory)
5 Hod (Splendor)
6 Yesod (Foundation)
7 Malkhut (Kingship)

The 33rd Day: Lag BaOmer

Lag BaOmer is the 33rd day of the Omer. It is a day of celebration and joy. We commemorate the end of a plague that killed 24,000 students of Rabbi Akiva. Lag BaOmer is also a day for studying Torah and reflecting on the meaning of Shavuot.

Shavuot Night

The night before Shavuot is called Tikkun Leil Shavuot. We stay up all night studying Torah and praying. This is a time to prepare our hearts and minds for receiving the Torah on Shavuot.

Shavuot Day

Shavuot is a two-day holiday that commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. We read the Torah and listen to sermons about the importance of the Torah in our lives. Shavuot is also a time for feasting and celebration.

Tisha B’Av Mourning Practices

Tisha B’Av, known as the “Fast of the Ninth of Av,” is an annual Jewish day of mourning commemorating historical tragedies that occurred on or near the ninth of Av. In 2025, Tisha B’Av will begin on the evening of Tuesday, July 29th, and end on the evening of Wednesday, July 30th.

General Practices

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Fast from food and drink for 25 hours.

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Abstain from bathing, wearing leather, and marital relations.

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Sit on low stools or the floor while studying or attending services.

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Avoid listening to or playing music, singing, or dancing.

Synagogue Observances

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Evening and morning services include special readings and laments.

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The Book of Lamentations (Eicha) is traditionally chanted.

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Prayers focus on themes of mourning, repentance, and redemption.

Number 8

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The number eight holds significance during Tisha B’Av:

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Eighty Events

Traditionally, 80 tragic events are said to have occurred on or near the ninth of Av.

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Eight Expressions of Mourning

There are eight specific actions observed on Tisha B’Av as a symbol of mourning:

Action
Fasting
Wearing no leather shoes
Sleeping on the floor
Sitting on low stools
Abstaining from bathing
Refraining from anointing with oil
Avoiding marital relations
Studying Torah while sitting

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Eighth Day of the Omer

Tisha B’Av is the culmination of the seven-week “Omer” period, which begins on the second day of Passover. The eighth day of the Omer marks the traditional date of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

10. Sukkot (Tabernacles)

This seven-day festival commemorates the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt. It begins on the 15th day of Tishrei and is observed by building and dwelling in temporary shelters, called “sukkahs,” as a reminder of the Israelites’ forty-year sojourn in the desert.

During Sukkot, Jews also perform a special ritual involving four plant species: a palm branch, myrtle branches, willow twigs, and a citron. These plants are bundled together and waved during the prayers, symbolizing the unity of the Jewish people and their connection to the land of Israel.

Sukkot is also a time of joy and celebration, with special prayers, meals, and music. It concludes with Shemini Atzeret (the eighth day of assembly) and Simchat Torah (the rejoicing of the Torah), when the Torah scroll is read from beginning to end in synagogues.

Date in 2025 Name
September 29 First Day of Sukkot
October 5 Shemini Atzeret
October 6 Simchat Torah

Jewish Holidays 2025

The Jewish calendar is a lunisolar calendar, meaning that it is based on both the solar year and the lunar cycle. As a result, the dates of Jewish holidays vary from year to year. The following are the dates of Jewish holidays in 2025:

  • Rosh Hashanah: September 24-25, 2025
  • Yom Kippur: October 3-4, 2025
  • Sukkot: October 11-18, 2025
  • Shemini Atzeret: October 19, 2025
  • Simchat Torah: October 20, 2025
  • Hanukkah: December 21-28, 2025
  • Purim: March 7-8, 2025
  • Passover: April 5-12, 2025
  • Shavuot: May 25-26, 2025

People Also Ask About Jewish Holidays 2025

When is Passover 2025?

Passover begins on Wednesday, April 5, 2025, and ends on Thursday, April 12, 2025.

When is Hanukkah 2025?

Hanukkah begins on Wednesday, December 21, 2025, and ends on Thursday, December 28, 2025.

When is Rosh Hashanah 2025?

Rosh Hashanah begins on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, and ends on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

2025 Jewish Holidays Calendar: Significant Dates and Observances

2025 Jewish Holidays Calendar: Significant Dates and Observances

Prepare for a year filled with spiritual observances and joyous celebrations as we delve into the Jewish holidays 2025 calendar. From the somber remembrance of Yom Kippur to the vibrant revelry of Hanukkah, this calendar offers a tapestry of traditions that connect us to our heritage and enrich our present. Embark on a journey through time, where we commemorate milestones, honor our ancestors, and celebrate the resilience of the Jewish spirit.

The Jewish holidays 2025 calendar commences with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a time for reflection and renewal. The sound of the shofar, an ancient ram’s horn, heralds the beginning of a period of introspection, as we consider our actions and seek forgiveness. Transitioning into Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, we engage in a day of fasting and молитва, seeking reconciliation with ourselves and others. This somber day culminates in the Ne’ilah prayer, a powerful plea for forgiveness and a chance to start anew.

As the year progresses, we celebrate Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, a time to dwell in temporary shelters and remember our ancestors’ journey through the wilderness. Simchat Torah, the Rejoicing of the Law, follows, marking the completion and recommencement of the Torah reading cycle. And during Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, we kindle the menorah each night, commemorating the victory of the Maccabees over foreign oppressors. Each of these holidays holds a unique significance, offering opportunities for spiritual growth, communal connection, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage.

Rosh Hashanah 2025: The Jewish New Year

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a period of introspection and repentance. In 2025, Rosh Hashanah will begin on the evening of Sunday, September 21, and end on the evening of Tuesday, September 23.

The holiday is observed with a variety of customs and traditions, including:

  • Prayer and repentance: Jews attend synagogue services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur to pray for forgiveness and to make amends for their sins.
  • Shofar blowing: The shofar, a ram’s horn, is blown during synagogue services on Rosh Hashanah. The sound of the shofar is a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s judgment.
  • Festive meals: Jews gather with family and friends for festive meals on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Traditional dishes include apples and honey, which symbolize hope for a sweet new year.
  • Tashlich: On the afternoon of Rosh Hashanah, Jews often perform the ritual of tashlich, in which they symbolically cast their sins into a body of water.

    • Dates for Rosh Hashanah 2025

    Start Date Start Time End Date
    Sunday, September 21 sundown Tuesday, September 23

    Yom Kippur 2025: The Day of Atonement

    The Day of Atonement: A Time for Reflection and Repentance

    Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, is a time for deep introspection and sincere repentance. This 25-hour period, which begins at sundown on the evening of September 29th, 2025, and ends at nightfall on September 30th, requires the observance of a strict fast along with prayers and confessions that seek forgiveness for sins committed during the past year.

    Observances and Rituals of Yom Kippur

    During Yom Kippur, all work and activity ceases as the Jewish community focuses on their relationship with God. Prayer services are held throughout the day, and many people attend a special “Kol Nidre” service on the eve of the holiday. This service involves the recitation of a prayer that releases individuals from any vows or promises made during the previous year. Traditional penitential prayers are recited, including the “Vidui,” a confession of sins, and the “Al Chet,” a list of specific transgressions. Synagogue services also include the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn, which signals the end of the fast and the start of the new year.

    Observances of Yom Kippur
    Strict fasting from sundown to sundown
    Prayers and confessions throughout the day
    Kol Nidre service on the eve of the holiday
    Recitation of the Vidui and Al Chet prayers
    Blowing of the shofar to end the fast

    Sukkot 2025: The Feast of Tabernacles

    Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles, is one of the most important Jewish holidays. It commemorates the 40 years that the Israelites wandered in the desert after being freed from slavery in Egypt. During this time, they lived in temporary shelters called “sukkahs” to protect themselves from the elements.

    Rituals and Observances

    Sukkot is celebrated over eight days in the fall. During this time, it is customary to build and decorate a sukkah in one’s backyard or courtyard. The sukkah should be large enough to sleep in and should have a roof made of natural materials, such as branches or leaves. It should also be decorated with fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

    In addition to building a sukkah, there are a number of other rituals and observances associated with Sukkot. These include:

    • Waving the Four Species: On each day of Sukkot, it is customary to wave four species of plants: a palm branch, a myrtle branch, a willow branch, and an etrog (a citron). These species represent the diversity of the Jewish people and the hope for a bountiful harvest.
    • Eating in the Sukkah: During Sukkot, it is customary to eat all of one’s meals in the sukkah. This practice symbolizes the Israelites’ reliance on God during their journey through the desert.
    • Sleeping in the Sukkah: While not required, many Jews choose to sleep in the sukkah during Sukkot. This practice further symbolizes the Israelites’ experience in the desert.

    Jewish Holidays 2025 Calendar

    Holiday Start Date End Date
    Rosh Hashanah September 18 September 20
    Yom Kippur September 27 September 28
    Sukkot September 30 October 7
    Simchat Torah October 8 October 8
    Hanukkah December 10 December 18

    Simchat Torah 2025: The Rejoicing of the Torah

    Simchat Torah, also known as the “Rejoicing of the Torah,” is a Jewish holiday that marks the completion of the yearly cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new one. In 2025, Simchat Torah will be celebrated on Sunday, September 28th.

    Significance of Simchat Torah

    Simchat Torah celebrates the Torah, which is considered the sacred text of Judaism. During the holiday, Jews gather in synagogues to read the final passages of the Torah and then start again from the beginning. This ritual symbolizes the continuous nature of the Torah and its teachings.

    Traditions of Simchat Torah

    Simchat Torah is observed with joyful celebrations and festivities. Some of the traditional practices include:

    • Hakafot: Processions with the Torah scrolls are held around the synagogue while people sing and dance.
    • Yizkor: A memorial service is held to remember departed loved ones.
    • Simchat Beit HaShoeivah: A festive gathering where people celebrate with music, dancing, and food.

    Dates of Simchat Torah 2025

    The dates of Simchat Torah in 2025 are as follows:

    Date Day
    September 28th Sunday

    Hanukkah 2025: The Festival of Lights

    When is Hanukkah 2025?

    Hanukkah 2025 begins at sunset on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, and ends at nightfall on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

    What is Hanukkah?

    Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The holiday is celebrated for eight nights and is marked by the lighting of menorahs, singing of songs and prayers, eating of traditional foods, and playing of games.

    What are the customs of Hanukkah?

    Some of the customs of Hanukkah include:

    • Lighting the menorah: The menorah is a nine-branched candelabra that is lit each night of Hanukkah. The candles are lit from left to right, with the shamash (helper candle) used to light the other candles.
    • Singing songs and prayers: Hanukkah songs and prayers are sung throughout the holiday. Some of the most popular songs include “Ma’oz Tzur” and “O Hanukkah.”
    • Eating traditional foods: Traditional Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), and challah (braided bread).
    • Playing games: Dreidel is a popular Hanukkah game that is played with a four-sided spinning top. The letters on the top stand for the Hebrew words “nes gadol haya sham” (a great miracle happened there).

    What is the significance of Hanukkah?

    Hanukkah is a holiday that celebrates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness. It is also a time to reflect on the importance of religious freedom and to remember the sacrifices that have been made throughout history to protect it.

    Hanukkah 2025 Calendar

    Date Event
    Wednesday, December 24, 2025 First night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the first candle
    Thursday, December 25, 2025 Second night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the second candle
    Friday, December 26, 2025 Third night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the third candle
    Saturday, December 27, 2025 Fourth night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the fourth candle
    Sunday, December 28, 2025 Fifth night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the fifth candle
    Monday, December 29, 2025 Sixth night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the sixth candle
    Tuesday, December 30, 2025 Seventh night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the seventh candle
    Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Eighth night of Hanukkah: Lighting of the eighth candle

    Tu B’Shevat 2025: The New Year for Trees

    Tu B’Shevat, the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, marks the New Year for Trees. It is a time to celebrate the bounty of the natural world and the importance of trees to our lives.

    Meaning of Tu B’Shevat

    The name Tu B’Shevat comes from the Hebrew phrase “Tu BiShvat,” which means “the 15th of Shevat.” The holiday is also known as the New Year for Trees because it is a time when trees begin to wake up from their winter slumber and start to grow new leaves.

    Customs and Traditions

    On Tu B’Shevat, Jewish people traditionally eat fruits and nuts, plant trees, and give charity. Eating fruits and nuts is a way to celebrate the bounty of the natural world and to remember the importance of trees to our lives. Planting trees is a way to show our commitment to the environment and to future generations.

    Tikkun Olam

    Tu B’Shevat is also a time to focus on Tikkun Olam, the Jewish concept of repairing the world. On this day, we can do our part to make the world a better place by planting trees, recycling, and reducing our waste.

    The Importance of Trees

    Trees are essential to life on Earth. They provide us with oxygen, food, and shelter. They also help to clean our air and water, and they provide a habitat for animals. By celebrating Tu B’Shevat, we can show our appreciation for trees and our commitment to protecting them.

    Dates and Times

    Year Start End
    2025 January 20, 2025 January 21, 2025

    Purim 2025: The Feast of Lots

    Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from annihilation in the Persian Empire in the 4th century BCE. The holiday is celebrated with readings from the Book of Esther, festive meals, and costumes. In 2025, Purim begins at sunset on March 7 and ends at nightfall on March 8.

    The Number 7 in Purim

    The number 7 plays a significant role in the Purim story:

    1. Haman cast lots (Purim in Hebrew) on the 7th of the 12th month (Adar) to determine the day to annihilate the Jews.
    2. Esther invited King Xerxes and Haman to two banquets, which took place on the 7th day of the Adar month.
    3. The Jews were given permission to defend themselves on the 13th of Adar, which was 7 days after the original date set by Haman.
    4. The Jews defeated their enemies in a 7-hour battle.
    5. The Book of Esther records the names of the 10 sons of Haman who were hanged on 7 gallows.
    6. The Megillah (Book of Esther) is read 7 times during the Purim holiday.
    7. The Hanukkah Menorah used in Purim has 7 branches, representing the 7 days of the festival.
    Purim 2025
    Start: March 7, 2025 (sunset)
    End: March 8, 2025 (nightfall)

    Passover 2025: The Festival of Freedom

    Passover, a significant Jewish holiday, commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. In 2025, Passover will be observed from April 5th to April 13th.

    The Significance of Number Eight

    The number eight holds special significance in Passover traditions. Here are a few examples:

    • Matzah: Eight sheets of matzah (unleavened bread) symbolize the Israelites’ hasty departure from Egypt.
    • Plagues: There were eight plagues that God brought upon Egypt as punishment for Pharaoh’s refusal to free the Israelites.
    • Circumcision: Jewish males are circumcised on the eighth day of their lives, a practice that originated during Moses’ time in Egypt.
    • Passover Offerings: Two male lambs or goats were sacrificed as Passover offerings, one on the eighth and one on the fourteenth day of the festival.
    • Counting the Omer: After Passover, Jews count the Omer for 49 days (seven weeks) until the festival of Shavuot, with each day counted as one-eighth of the total.
    • Hanukkah: The Hanukkah menorah has eight branches, representing the eight days of the festival and the number of nights the oil in the Temple’s menorah miraculously lasted.
    • Shemini Atzeret: The eighth day after Sukkot, known as Shemini Atzeret, is marked by special prayers and a festive atmosphere.
    • Chanukah Blessings: The blessings recited over the candles of the Hanukkah menorah include a reference to the eight days of the holiday.

    These examples highlight the deep significance of the number eight within Jewish Passover traditions and symbolism.

    Shavuot 2025: The Festival of Weeks

    Shavuot, meaning “Weeks”, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. It is also known as the Festival of Weeks because it occurs seven weeks (49 days) after the holiday of Passover. In 2025, Shavuot will begin on the evening of Sunday, May 24th, and end on the evening of Tuesday, May 26th.

    Customs and Traditions

    Shavuot is traditionally celebrated by:

    • Reading the Book of Ruth in the synagogue
    • Eating dairy foods, such as cheesecake and blintzes
    • Decorating synagogues and homes with greenery
    • Studying Torah throughout the night

    The Number 9

    The number 9 plays a significant role in Shavuot. The Torah was given on the 6th of Sivan, which is the 9th Hebrew month. There are also 9 commandments in the “Ten Commandments” which are really 10 statements but 9 of them start with the words “You shall not”. Additionally, the Omer, a traditional Jewish practice of counting the days between Passover and Shavuot, consists of 9 weeks, each divided into 9 days.

    Day Hebrew Month Number
    Begins Sivan 6th
    Ends Sivan 16th
    Duration 7 Weeks
    Number of Commandments 9
    Number of Omer Days 49

    Tisha B’Av 2025: The Fast of the Ninth of Av

    Tisha B’Av is a solemn day of fasting and mourning in the Jewish calendar, commemorating several tragedies that befell the Jewish people throughout history.

    In 2025, Tisha B’Av will begin at sunset on Sunday, August 10th and end at nightfall on Monday, August 11th.

    During the fast, Jews traditionally abstain from food and drink, wear leather shoes, and refrain from bathing, marital relations, and other forms of physical pleasure.

    Ten Tragedies Mourned on Tisha B’Av

    Event Year
    Destruction of the First Temple 586 BCE
    Destruction of the Second Temple 70 CE
    Bar Kokhba’s revolt 135 CE
    Decree forbidding circumcision 135 CE
    Crusader massacre 1095 CE
    Expulsion from England 1290 CE
    Expulsion from France 1306 CE
    Pogroms during the Black Death 1348 CE
    Khmelnytsky Massacres 1648 CE
    Holocaust 20th century CE

    Tisha B’Av is a time for reflection, repentance, and mourning, as well as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.

    Jewish Holidays 2025 Calendar

    The Jewish calendar is a lunisolar calendar, which means that it is based on both the moon and the sun. The Jewish year begins in the fall, and the months are named after the Hebrew words for the seasons. The Jewish holidays are based on the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. The most important Jewish holidays include Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah.

    The Jewish holidays are a time for celebration and reflection. They are a time to remember the history and traditions of the Jewish people, and to celebrate the Jewish faith. The Jewish holidays are also a time to spend time with family and friends, and to enjoy the traditions of Jewish culture.

    People Also Ask About Jewish Holidays 2025 Calendar

    When is Passover 2025?

    Passover 2025 begins on Wednesday, April 8th and ends on Thursday, April 16th.

    When is Rosh Hashanah 2025?

    Rosh Hashanah 2025 begins on Monday, September 8th and ends on Tuesday, September 9th.

    When is Yom Kippur 2025?

    Yom Kippur 2025 begins on Tuesday, September 16th and ends on Wednesday, September 17th.

    When is Hanukkah 2025?

    Hanukkah 2025 begins on Saturday, December 12th and ends on Sunday, December 20th.

4 Big Jewish Holidays in 2025 and 2026

4 Big Jewish Holidays in 2025 and 2026
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The Jewish holidays are a time to celebrate and reflect on the past year and look forward to the year to come. They are a time to gather with family and friends, eat delicious food, and share stories and traditions. The Jewish holidays are also a time to learn about Jewish history and culture, and to connect with the Jewish community. In 2025, the Jewish holidays will begin on September 13th with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. The holidays will continue through September 28th with Simchat Torah, the holiday that celebrates the completion of the reading of the Torah. In 2026, the Jewish holidays will begin on October 4th with Rosh Hashanah and end on October 13th with Simchat Torah.

One of the most important Jewish holidays is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is a day of fasting and repentance, and it is considered to be the holiest day of the Jewish year. On Yom Kippur, Jews ask for forgiveness for their sins and seek to atone for their wrongdoings. Another important Jewish holiday is Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles. Sukkot is a seven-day holiday that commemorates the Israelites’ wandering in the desert after they left Egypt. During Sukkot, Jews build temporary huts, or sukkahs, and eat their meals inside them. Sukkot is also a time to celebrate the harvest and to give thanks for God’s blessings.

Finally, one of the most joyful Jewish holidays is Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. Hanukkah is an eight-day holiday that commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks. During Hanukkah, Jews light candles in a menorah, eat latkes, and play dreidel. Hanukkah is also a time to celebrate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple. The Jewish holidays are a rich and diverse tradition that has been celebrated for centuries. They are a time to connect with family and friends, to learn about Jewish history and culture, and to celebrate the Jewish faith.

Passover 2025 and 2026: Dates and Significance

The Jewish holiday of Passover commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. It is observed with symbolic rituals, traditional foods, and festive gatherings.

Dates

Year First Day of Passover Last Day of Passover
2025 Tuesday, April 8 Tuesday, April 15
2026 Friday, March 27 Friday, April 3

Significance

Passover marks the beginning of spring and the transition from slavery to freedom. The holiday is celebrated with a seder, a ritual meal that includes special foods, prayers, and storytelling. Passover also includes the prohibition of eating leavened bread, which symbolizes the Israelites’ hasty departure from Egypt when they didn’t have time for their bread to rise.

Rosh Hashanah 2025 and 2026: Beginning the Jewish New Year

Rosh Hashanah, meaning “head of the year” in Hebrew, marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days. It is a time of reflection, repentance, and celebration. Jews traditionally observe Rosh Hashanah with special prayers, festive meals, and the sounding of the shofar, a ram’s horn trumpet.

Rosh Hashanah 2025 and 2026 Dates

Year Begins on Ends on
2025 September 29, Wednesday October 1, Friday
2026 September 18, Thursday September 20, Saturday

Traditions and Customs of Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah is marked by a number of unique traditions and customs, including:

  • Sounding the Shofar: The shofar is blown 100 times during Rosh Hashanah services, symbolizing the call for repentance and the awakening of the soul.
  • Eating Sweet Foods: Jews traditionally eat sweet foods on Rosh Hashanah, such as apples dipped in honey, to symbolize their hope for a sweet new year.
  • Tashlich Ceremony: On the afternoon of Rosh Hashanah, Jews perform the tashlich ceremony. This involves casting bread crumbs or small stones into a body of water as a symbolic way of casting away sins.
  • Festive Meals: Rosh Hashanah is a time for celebration, and families and friends often gather for special meals that include traditional dishes such as brisket, challah, and honey cake.

Yom Kippur 2025 and 2026: Day of Atonement and Spiritual Renewal

Origins and Significance

Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Observed on the tenth day of Tishrei (usually in September or October), it commemorates the day when Moses returned from Mount Sinai with the second set of tablets containing the Ten Commandments. The day is set aside for reflection, repentance, and atonement for sins committed during the past year.

Observances and Traditions

Yom Kippur is marked by a 25-hour fast from sunset on the eve of the holiday until sunset the following day. During this time, Jews refrain from food, drink, bathing, wearing leather, and engaging in marital relations. The fast is intended to cleanse the body and soul and to create a state of humility and introspection.

Customs and Rituals

In addition to the fast, Yom Kippur is observed through various customs and rituals, including:

Custom Purpose
Kol Nidre Prayer A prayer recited on the eve of Yom Kippur to annul any vows or oaths made during the past year.
Atonement Service A series of prayers and confessions recited throughout Yom Kippur, seeking forgiveness for sins.
Al Chet Litany A recitation of 46 confessions, acknowledging specific sins and asking for God’s mercy.

Through these observances and rituals, Jews on Yom Kippur strive to atone for their sins, reconnect with their faith, and prepare for the coming year.

Sukkot 2025 and 2026: Festival of Tabernacles and Harvest

Sukkot, also known as the Festival of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths, is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the 40 years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert after their exodus from Egypt.

Sukkot 2025

Sukkot 2025 begins on the evening of October 1, 2025, and ends on the evening of October 8, 2025.

Sukkot 2026

Sukkot 2026 begins on the evening of September 20, 2026, and ends on the evening of September 27, 2026

Customs of Sukkot

During Sukkot, Jewish people build temporary huts called sukkahs, which represent the flimsy shelters the Israelites lived in during their desert wanderings. They also eat meals in the sukkah, share fruits of the harvest, and perform the traditional waving of the lulav and etrog.

The *lulav* is a bouquet of palm branches, myrtle branches, and willow branches, while the *etrog* is a special citrus fruit. These four species represent different parts of the human body and are waved in all directions to symbolize the Jewish people’s belief in God’s omnipresence.

Sukkot is a time of great joy and celebration. It is a reminder of God’s protection and provision, and a time to give thanks for the harvest.

Dates and Times of Sukkot 2025 and 2026

Year Begins Ends
2025 October 1, 2025 October 8, 2025
2026 September 20, 2026 September 27, 2026

Simchat Torah 2025 and 2026: Joyful Celebration of the Torah

Simchat Torah, also known as the “Rejoicing of the Torah,” is a Jewish holiday that marks the completion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new one. This joyous celebration is observed with singing, dancing, and a ceremonial procession of the Torah scrolls.

Simchat Torah 2025

In 2025, Simchat Torah will begin on the evening of October 11th and end on the evening of October 12th.

Simchat Torah 2026

In 2026, Simchat Torah will begin on the evening of October 10th and end on the evening of October 11th.

Customs and Observances

  • Torah reading: The entire Torah is read over the course of the year, and Simchat Torah marks the completion of this cycle. On Simchat Torah, the final portion of the Torah, called V’Zot HaBrachah, is read, as well as the first portion of the new cycle, called Bereshit.
  • Hakafot: During Simchat Torah, the Torah scrolls are paraded around the synagogue seven times in a celebratory procession.
  • Singing and dancing: Simchat Torah is a time for joy and celebration, and singing and dancing are an integral part of the festivities.

Hakafot Schedule

Time Event
Morning Children’s hakafot
Afternoon Adult hakafot
Evening Final hakafot and dance party

Significance of Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah is a celebration of the Torah, the sacred text that forms the foundation of Jewish faith and practice. It reminds us of the importance of studying and living by the Torah’s teachings, and it inspires us to continue our journey of spiritual growth.

Hanukkah 2025 and 2026: Festival of Lights and Victory

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE.

Dates of Hanukkah in 2025 and 2026

The dates of Hanukkah vary each year according to the Hebrew calendar. In 2025, Hanukkah begins on the evening of December 7th and ends on the evening of December 15th. In 2026, Hanukkah begins on the evening of December 5th and ends on the evening of December 13th.

Traditions of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is celebrated with a number of traditions, including:

Lighting the Menorah

One of the most important traditions of Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah. The menorah is a special candelabra with nine branches, one for each night of Hanukkah. On each night of the holiday, one additional candle is lit on the menorah.

Playing Dreidel

Another popular Hanukkah tradition is playing dreidel. Dreidel is a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters on each side. The letters stand for the words “nes gadol hayah sham,” which means “a great miracle happened there.” When playing dreidel, players spin the top and then bet on which letter will land facing up.

Eating Latkes and Sufganiyot

Latkes are potato pancakes that are traditionally eaten during Hanukkah. Sufganiyot are jelly-filled doughnuts that are also popular Hanukkah treats.

Giving Gifts

In some families, it is customary to give gifts on Hanukkah. Gifts are typically small and symbolic of the holiday, such as menorahs, dreidels, or books about Jewish history and culture.

Meaning of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is a holiday that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for family, friends, and community. Hanukkah is also a reminder of the importance of religious freedom and the resilience of the Jewish people.

Tu B’Shevat 2025 and 2026: Jewish Arbor Day

Tu B’Shevat, also known as Jewish Arbor Day, celebrates the new year for trees in the Jewish calendar. It occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which typically falls in January or February. In 2025, Tu B’Shevat will begin on the evening of January 18th and end on the evening of January 19th. In 2026, it will begin on the evening of February 6th and end on the evening of February 7th.

Tree-Planting Ceremonies

One of the traditional ways to celebrate Tu B’Shevat is to participate in a tree-planting ceremony. These ceremonies often take place in forests or parks, and they involve planting new trees to symbolize the renewal of nature and the importance of trees in the Jewish tradition.

Special Foods

Certain foods are also associated with Tu B’Shevat. These include:

Food Symbolism
Carobs Prosperity and abundance
Dates Sweetness and fruitfulness
Figs Wisdom and knowledge
Grapes Joy and happiness
Pomegranates Righteousness and beauty
Wheat Nourishment and sustenance

Seven Species

The Torah specifically mentions seven species of plants that are native to the Land of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates. These species are often associated with Tu B’Shevat and are frequently featured in holiday celebrations and blessings.

Environmental Conservation

Tu B’Shevat has also become a day for raising awareness about environmental conservation. Many people use this holiday as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of protecting the natural world and to take action to reduce their environmental impact.

Purim 2025 and 2026: Festival of Lots and Deliverance

Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people in the Persian Empire from a plot to annihilate them. The holiday gets its name from the Hebrew word “pur,” which means “lots,” derived from the villain of the Book of Esther, Haman, who cast lots to determine the day of the plot’s execution.

On Purim, Jews read the Book of Esther, which tells the story of the holiday, and hold festive meals called “Purim Seudot” with wine, special foods, and singing. Children dress up in costumes and engage in lively dancing and singing, with a focus on celebrating the triumph of good over evil.

Purim 2025

In 2025, Purim will begin on the evening of Wednesday, March 5th, and end on the evening of Thursday, March 6th.

Purim 2026

In 2026, Purim will begin on the evening of Thursday, February 26th, and end on the evening of Friday, February 27th.

The Significance of the Number 8

The number 8 holds great significance in the Purim story:

  • Haman cast lots on the 13th of Nisan, the eighth month of the Jewish calendar.
  • The decree to destroy the Jews was issued on the 13th of Sivan, the eighth month of the calendar.
  • Esther went before the king on the 13th of Tevet, the eighth month.
  • The enemies of the Jews were hanged on the 13th of Adar, the eighth month.
  • The eight days of Purim correspond to the eight days that the Jews fought off their enemies.
  • The Book of Esther mentions the number eight a total of 10 times.
Event Date (Month 8)
Haman casts lots Nisan 13
Decree to destroy Jews issued Sivan 13
Esther goes before the king Tevet 13
Enemies hanged Adar 13

Pesach Sheni 2025 and 2026: Second Passover

Pesach Sheni, or Second Passover, is a minor Jewish holiday that occurs one month after the first Passover. It is observed on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, and its observance is based on the biblical commandment to offer a second Passover sacrifice for those who were unable to do so during the first Passover.

Here are the dates for Pesach Sheni in 2025 and 2026:

Year Date
2025 April 24
2026 May 13

Pesach Sheni is a relatively minor holiday, and its observance is not as widespread as that of the first Passover. However, it is still an important part of the Jewish calendar, and it provides an opportunity for those who missed the first Passover to make a second offering.

Observances of Pesach Sheni

The observances of Pesach Sheni are similar to those of the first Passover. The day is marked by the reading of the Torah portion that describes the commandment to offer a second Passover sacrifice, and by the offering of a second Passover sacrifice in the Temple in Jerusalem. In addition, the day is also a day of rest and feasting, and many Jews will gather with family and friends to enjoy a festive meal.

Significance of Pesach Sheni

Pesach Sheni has a number of important meanings. First, it is a reminder of the importance of following God’s commandments. Second, it is a symbol of God’s compassion for those who are unable to fulfill his commandments. Third, it is a reminder of the hope of redemption and the belief that one day all Jews will be able to celebrate Passover together in Jerusalem.

Lag Ba’Omer 2025 and 2026: Festival of Akiva and Shimon Bar Yochai

Meaning and Origin

Lag Ba’Omer is a joyous Jewish holiday celebrated on the 33rd day of the Omer period, which counts the days between Passover and Shavuot. The name “Lag Ba’Omer” is an acronym for “Lag B’Omer,” where “Lag” represents the numerical value of 33. The holiday commemorates two prominent rabbis: Akiva and Shimon Bar Yochai.

Rabbi Akiva

Rabbi Akiva was a renowned sage and teacher who lived in Roman-occupied Judea during the 1st century AD. He is known for his profound teachings, his efforts to revive Jewish scholarship, and his martyrdom under Roman persecution.

Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai

Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai was a disciple of Rabbi Akiva and a mystic who lived in the 2nd century AD. He is known for his writings, including the Zohar, a seminal work of Kabbalah. Legend has it that Rabbi Shimon and his son hid in a cave for 13 years to avoid Roman capture, during which time they studied Torah and communed with God.

Customs and Traditions

Lag Ba’Omer is a day of celebration and joy. Traditional customs include:

  1. Bonfires: Families and communities gather around bonfires to commemorate Rabbi Akiva’s students who miraculously survived a plague.
  2. Picnics and outings: People enjoy picnics and outings in nature to celebrate the beauty of spring.
  3. Archery: In remembrance of the Bar Kokhba revolt against the Romans, archery competitions are held.
  4. Cutting hair and shaving: Children under the age of three who have not yet had their first haircut or shaved their beards traditionally do so on Lag Ba’Omer.
  5. Studying Torah: The day is also devoted to studying Torah and discussing Jewish teachings.

Dates in 2025 and 2026

Lag Ba’Omer will fall on the following dates in 2025 and 2026:

Year Start Date End Date
2025 Tuesday, May 13th Wednesday, May 14th
2026 Wednesday, May 6th Thursday, May 7th

Significance

Lag Ba’Omer is a joyful celebration that commemorates the lives and teachings of two revered Jewish sages. It is a day to reflect on the importance of faith, scholarship, and unity in the face of adversity.

Jewish Holidays 2025 and 2026

The Jewish calendar is based on the lunar cycle, so the dates of Jewish holidays vary from year to year. In 2025, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, will begin on the evening of September 13th and end on the evening of September 15th. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, will begin on the evening of September 23rd and end on the evening of September 24th. In 2026, Rosh Hashanah will begin on the evening of September 2nd and end on the evening of September 4th. Yom Kippur will begin on the evening of September 12th and end on the evening of September 13th.

Other major Jewish holidays that will be celebrated in 2025 and 2026 include: Passover, which commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt; Shavuot, which celebrates the giving of the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai; and Sukkot, which celebrates the harvest.

People Also Ask About Jewish Holidays 2025 and 2026

When is Rosh Hashanah in 2025?

Rosh Hashanah will begin on the evening of September 13th and end on the evening of September 15th in 2025.

When is Yom Kippur in 2026?

Yom Kippur will begin on the evening of September 12th and end on the evening of September 13th in 2026.

What are the major Jewish holidays?

The major Jewish holidays include Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot.

5 Major Jewish Holidays to Observe in 2025

The Quickest Guide to Jewish Holidays in 2025

As the Gregorian calendar flips to 2025, the vibrant tapestry of Jewish holidays unfolds, each thread a testament to a rich cultural heritage and unwavering faith. From the solemn introspection of Yom Kippur to the joyous revelry of Hanukkah, the annual cycle of observances marks milestones in the Jewish calendar, connecting communities worldwide in shared traditions and spiritual renewal.

The first major holiday on the 2025 calendar is Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which falls on September 14th and 15th. Rosh Hashanah symbolizes a time of reflection and introspection, as Jews around the globe gather in synagogues for prayers and special services. The blowing of the shofar, an ancient ram’s horn, heralds the start of the High Holy Days, a period of intense spiritual contemplation and repentance.

Following Rosh Hashanah is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, which occurs on September 23rd in 2025. Considered the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur is a 25-hour fast day dedicated to seeking forgiveness for sins and renewing one’s covenant with God. Observant Jews spend the day in prayer, contemplation, and self-denial, striving to cleanse their souls and emerge from the experience spiritually purified.

Major Jewish Holidays in 2025

The Jewish calendar is based on the lunar cycle, and as such, the dates of Jewish holidays vary from year to year. In 2025, the major Jewish holidays will fall on the following dates:

  • Rosh Hashanah: September 29-30
  • Yom Kippur: October 8
  • Sukkot: October 16-23
  • Simchat Torah: October 24
  • Hanukkah: December 10-18

Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days and is a time for reflection and repentance. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar and is a day of fasting and prayer. Sukkot, the Festival of Booths, is a harvest festival that commemorates the Israelites’ 40 years of wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. Simchat Torah, the Rejoicing of the Torah, is a celebration of the completion of the annual cycle of Torah reading.

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It is a time of joy and celebration, and is often celebrated with the lighting of menorahs, the playing of dreidels, and the eating of latkes and sufganiyot.

People Also Ask About Major Jewish Holidays in 2025

When is Passover in 2025?

Passover is not one of the major Jewish holidays that fall in 2025. In 2025, Passover begins on April 5 and ends on April 13.

When is Purim in 2025?

Purim is not one of the major Jewish holidays that fall in 2025. In 2025, Purim is celebrated on March 7-8.

When is Shavuot in 2025?

Shavuot is not one of the major Jewish holidays that fall in 2025. In 2025, Shavuot is celebrated on May 30.