Discover the meaning, traditions, and customs behind Jewish holidays throughout the year. From major festivals to lesser-known observances, learn how each occasion is celebrated, its history, and its relevance in modern Jewish life.
When is Rosh Hashanah in 2026? In 2026, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, and ends at nightfall on Sunday, September 13. It falls on 1–2 Tishrei 5787 in the Hebrew calendar. Food plays a central role in Rosh Hashanah observance and tradition, with rich symbolism woven into every dish. We eat […]
Rosh Hashanah – the Jewish New Year, coming up September 11-12, 2026 – is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Judaism. But while many are familiar with its modern customs, from apples dipped in honey to the sounding of the shofar, fewer know about its biblical origins. Learn more about Rosh […]
Pomegranates are a popular fruit to eat during Rosh Hashanah and a significant symbol in Judaism year-round, often gracing Judaica and Jewish jewelry. Since Rosh Hashanah 2026 begins on September 11 at sundown, now is the perfect time to learn more about the significance and symbolism of the pomegranate in Judaism and Rosh Hashanah!
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the Jewish year: a time of reflection, forgiveness, and renewal. In 2026, it begins at sundown on Sunday, September 20, and lasts through the following evening. Marked by fasting, prayer, and other austere restrictions, Yom Kippur is often seen as solemn, yet it also […]
As Israel enjoys its classically warm weather and endless sunshine, we’re bringing you our favorite recipes from Israeli kitchens for summer dishes that’ll make your Shabbat and weekend meals unforgettable!
What is a Shofar? A shofar (שופר) is an ancient and sacred Jewish horn instrument, most often made from a ram’s horn, which has been used by Jews for thousands of years and still has a role in Jewish life today! In modern times it is most notably used during the High Holy Days of Rosh […]
The High Holidays (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur) are a spiritual high during the Jewish year. Between atoning for our misdeeds, apologizing to those we have wronged, and asking God to write our names in the Book of Life for the upcoming year… it’s intense! Some rabbis have compared the High Holidays to a job interview. You can’t just […]
It feels like every year, the High Holidays sneak up on us, and we end up scrambling to make sure everything is ready to celebrate the Jewish New Year. When Is Rosh Hashanah in 2026? In 2026, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, and ends at nightfall on Sunday, September 13. It […]
The month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, known as Elul, is a particular time of repentance, introspection, and preparation for what everyone hopes is a good year ahead. Go into any synagogue and the shofar is blown at the end each morning which only happens during Elul, in order to wake up the soul in […]
The Jewish calendar is unlike any other. While most of the world runs on the Gregorian solar calendar, Jewish life follows a unique lunar-solar system that has guided Jewish holidays, rituals, and traditions for thousands of years. That’s why the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, falls in September or October instead of January, and why […]
