Rosh Hashanah Events in Jerusalem 2018Sun | Sep 9

Rosh Hashanah, which literally means the head of the year, takes place over the course of two consecutive days, the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually come out around September.

Like many other Jewish festivals, its customs center around the synagogue and home, where large festive meals are prepared for family and friends.

In the lead up to the festival, you are likely to see round challah (braided sweet bread) in many Jerusalem bakeries. The round shape symbolizes the yearly cycle and the circle of life. You are also likely to find honey cake in many bakeries, as sweet foods such as honey have come to symbolize hopes for a “sweet new year.”

Be sure to sample some honey cake and purchase some honey to dip apple into – a widespread Jewish custom this time of year. It is also customary to eat fruit, such as pomegranates, that have not yet been eaten during the season.

On the Jewish new year many hours are spent in synagogues around the city, and the city’s shops close, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, an obvious contrast to regular days when Jerusalem bustles with activity.

Walk down to the Western Wall (Kotel) to see thousands of people congregating for special prayers. You may even get to hear the shofar (ram’s horn) blown, a central part of the prayer services on Rosh Hashanah.

And, if you like, try wishing people “Shanah tovah,” which means “Have a good year” in Hebrew.

Rosh Hashana 2018 begins the eve of Sunday, September 9 and ends Tuesday, September 11 after sunset. Check out some of the events around town during and around the holiday…

Rosh Hashana 2018 events will be updated as they become available. 

Rosh Hashana Hot Deals for 2017 in Jerusalem

Here are some great Rosh Hashana deals on hotels and vacation rentals that will make sure you start your new Jewish year with a clean and fresh mind. Shana Tova!

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Photography courtesy of Noam Chen