Passover
Observe Passover, the Jewish celebration of freedom! This eight-day festival commemorates the Exodus from Egypt. Families gather for Seder meals, retelling the liberation story and sharing symbolic foods that represent the journey to freedom.
About Passover
Observe Passover, the Jewish celebration of freedom! This eight-day festival commemorates the Exodus from Egypt. Families gather for Seder meals, retelling the liberation story and sharing symbolic foods that represent the journey to freedom.
History & origins
Passover is the Jewish festival of freedom, rooted in the biblical Exodus story of the Israelites’ escape from slavery in Egypt more than 3,000 years ago. It is observed in Jewish communities worldwide, with the first two nights centered on the Seder, a ritual meal that retells the liberation narrative through the Haggadah and symbolic foods. The holiday lasts seven days in Israel and in some Jewish traditions, and eight days in many diaspora communities.
Why it matters
Passover connects Jewish families to a foundational story of liberation, identity, and responsibility to remember oppression. Its rituals also shape communal life in practical ways, from clearing chametz before the holiday to gathering for Seders that bring multiple generations together around food, memory, and tradition.
How to celebrate
Attend or host a Seder. Learn the Passover story. Eat matzah and symbolic foods. Clean your home of leavened products. Discuss themes of freedom and liberation. Support Jewish community events.
Facts
- Passover lasts 7-8 days depending on tradition
- The Seder includes four cups of wine and symbolic foods
- Matzah represents bread that didn't have time to rise during the Exodus
- Children search for the hidden afikomen
- One of the most widely observed Jewish holidays
Upcoming dates
- Wednesday, April 1, 2026
- Thursday, April 1, 2027
- Saturday, April 1, 2028
- Sunday, April 1, 2029
- Monday, April 1, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Passover in 2026?
Passover in 2026 begins at sunset on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, and ends at nightfall on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Some communities observe seven days, while many outside Israel observe eight days.
What is Passover?
Passover is the Jewish spring festival that commemorates the Exodus from Egypt and the end of slavery. It is marked by the Seder meal, matzah, and the retelling of the Passover story.
Who started Passover?
Passover did not begin with one founder; it comes from the Torah and the ancient Israelite tradition of remembering the Exodus. Its rituals developed over many centuries within Judaism.
How do you celebrate Passover?
The main celebration is the Seder, a ritual dinner with readings, songs, wine, matzah, and symbolic foods. Many families also remove leavened products from their homes and avoid chametz during the holiday.
Is Passover 7 or 8 days?
It depends on tradition and location. Passover is seven days in Israel and in some Jewish communities, but eight days in many diaspora communities, including many Orthodox and Conservative households.
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