Celebrating Freedom: A Guide to Pesach (Passover) in 2025/2026

Pesach, also known as Passover, is one of the most significant holidays in the Jewish calendar. It commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and is observed for seven days in Israel and eight days in the diaspora. In this article, we will explore the dates, traditions, and customs associated with Pesach in 2025 and 2026.

Dates for Pesach in 2025 and 2026

In 2025, Pesach will begin on April 12th and end on April 20th. The following year, in 2026, Pesach will start on April 1st and conclude on April 9th. These dates are based on the Hebrew calendar, which is a lunisolar calendar that determines the dates of Jewish holidays.

Preparations for Pesach

Preparations for Pesach begin weeks in advance, as Jewish families around the world clean their homes and remove any chametz (leavened products) from their possession. This includes selling or disposing of any food items that contain yeast, such as bread, cakes, and pasta. Many families also conduct a thorough search of their homes for any remaining chametz, using a candle and a feather to sweep away any crumbs or debris.

Traditions and Customs

On the first night of Pesach, Jewish families gather together for a seder, a festive meal that retells the story of the Exodus from Egypt. The seder includes the reading of the Haggadah, a text that guides participants through the story of the Israelites' liberation. The meal also features traditional foods such as matzah (unleavened bread), charoset (a sweet paste made from apples and nuts), and maror (bitter herbs).

Throughout the week, Jewish families continue to observe the traditions and customs of Pesach, including eating only kosher for Passover foods and attending synagogue services. The final days of Pesach are marked by special prayers and ceremonies, including the Counting of the Omer, which begins on the second night of Pesach and continues for 49 days until the holiday of Shavuot.

Pesach is a joyous and meaningful holiday that celebrates the freedom and liberation of the Jewish people. Whether you are Jewish or simply interested in learning more about this significant holiday, we hope this guide has provided you with a deeper understanding of the traditions and customs associated with Pesach in 2025 and 2026. From the cleaning and preparation to the seder and special foods, Pesach is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate the story of the Exodus.

So mark your calendars for April 12th, 2025, and April 1st, 2026, and join in the celebration of Pesach. With its rich history, meaningful traditions, and joyful spirit, Pesach is a holiday that is sure to inspire and uplift people of all backgrounds and faiths.