What is Passover & How is it celebrated?
Passover (or “Pesach,” Hebrew: פסח) is an eight‑day holiday (seven in Israel) commemorating the Jewish people’s emancipation from slavery in Egypt over 3,000 years ago. It marks their transformation from oppression to freedom. One of its best‑known symbols is Matzah (Hebrew: מצה), unleavened bread baked in haste during the Exodus, as there was no time for dough to rise. Before the holiday, Jews traditionally clean their homes to remove all chametz - any leavened products made from wheat, barley, rye, oats, or spelt.
Passover begins with a Seder (Hebrew: סדר, “Order”), a festive meal following a set sequence read from the Haggadah. The Seder features symbolic foods such as Charoset, a sweet paste representing the mortar used by slaves, and bitter herbs recalling the hardship of bondage. Participants drink four cups of wine (or grape juice) to honor freedom. Children and adults alike sing, tell the story, and often reenact moments from the Exodus, fulfilling the commandment to feel as if we ourselves left Egypt. Families worldwide, across all traditions, gather for this powerful celebration of history, resilience, and renewal.
When is Passover?
Passover begins on the 15th day of month of Nissan of the Hebrew calendar. In 2026, it starts the evening of April 1st until the evening of Friday April 9th outside of Israel and evening April 8th in Israel.
Will my Jewish colleagues be available over the festival?
For many observant Jews, typical labor is not performed the first two days and the last two days outside of Israel (the first day and last day in Israel) of the holiday. This often includes avoiding travel and use of electronics, so some colleagues may be completely offline between sundown and sunset during this time. Between the first and last days, practice of doing typical labor may vary. While some people do work, many spend time with friends and family disconnected from work
What greeting can I give my Jewish colleagues?
During Passover, Jews will traditionally greet each other “Chag Kasher V’Sameach” – a happy and kosher festival! (the “Ch” in Chag is guttural like in “ch” in “Bach” or “Loch”.)
Where can I learn more?
- PJ Library Passover Hub (Great for Kids!)
- Jewish Virtual Library
- Passover! - Mayim Bialik
- 5 Unique Passover Traditions from around the world
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