Yom Kippur, or the “Day of Atonement,” is the holiest and most solemn day of the Jewish year, with an emphasis on atonement, repentance, and forgiveness. Unlike many other Jewish holidays celebrated by eating seemingly endless amounts of food, Yom Kippur is observed with a 25-hour period of fasting - no food or drink - and synagogue services.
For tourists, Yom Kippur is an interesting experience. There are no radio or television broadcasts. There is no public transportation and all shops and businesses are closed. Instead of seeing it as an inconvenience of sorts, prepare in advance so you can take this unique opportunity to watch an entire city – and such a bustling one at that – come to a complete standstill.
Yom Kippur in Jerusalem 2024
This year Yom Kippur begins on the eve of Friday, October 11, and ends the following evening. There are no events on the day itself, but there is a lot to experience in the days leading up to and around it.
Yom Kippur fast starts at 5:35pm on Friday and ends at 6:49pm on Saturday.
A few suggestions for Yom Kippur in Jerusalem
If you are in the city for Yom Kippur, take the opportunity to feel the city at a peaceful standstill with holiness in the air. Here are some of our favorite ways to experience this special holiday..
Prayer services
Check out a synagogue, such as the famous Great Synagogue, or head to the Western Wall (the Kotel). Even if you aren’t familiar with the prayer services, it will be a wonderful experience. Please note though, you may need to stand at the back as synagogues are usually packed on the holiday.
Dress in white
If you have white clothing in your suitcase, wearing it may be a fun experience. On Yom Kippur, the city becomes a “sea of white” as it is traditional to wear white clothing to symbolize the cleansing of one's sins on this day.
Photos by Enno Raschke