Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, begins at sunset on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, and ends after nightfall on Thursday, April 9, 2026. It is celebrated for seven days in Israel and eight days by many Jews in other parts of the world.
Key Passover Rituals
The Seder Meal
This festive meal is a central part of Passover celebrations, where families reunite to recount the exodus from Egypt.
Avoiding Chametz
Observant Jews avoid eating chametz, or leavened bread, as a reminder of the unleavened bread the Israelites ate during their hasty escape from Egypt. Instead, they eat matzo, an unleavened cracker-like bread.
What’s Different This Year?
In 2026, concerns remain regarding security and community safety. Seder tables may include symbolic empty seats to honor those affected by past tragedies and to foster reflection on community resilience. Jewish organizations continue to emphasize safety during public gatherings, with guidance from networks such as the Secure Community Network for event organizers and synagogues.
Special Events
- Interfaith Seders are being organized in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas to foster community unity and resilience.
- The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles will host a Seder for interfaith leaders and first responders impacted by recent events, continuing the tradition of support and recognition.
- Chabad-Lubavitch plans its annual parade of “Mitzvah Tanks” in New York City to spread kindness and distribute matzo during Passover 2026.
- For those needing assistance, organizations such as the Met Council continue to provide free kosher-for-Passover food to Jewish Americans facing economic challenges.
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