Passover 2026 Dates, Traditions, and Greetings

Everything you need to know about the major Jewish holiday

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:06pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph showing the blurred silhouettes of people gathered around a table, with warm pools of light and color creating an intimate, contemplative mood.The soft, hazy glow of a Passover Seder dinner captures the holiday's reflective spirit of tradition and community.NYC Today

Passover, a significant Jewish celebration observed by millions worldwide, begins this week. The eight-day holiday commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. It includes special dinners, symbolic foods, and various traditions around work and rest.

Why it matters

Passover is a central event in the Jewish faith, with deep historical and cultural significance. Understanding the holiday's traditions and customs can help foster greater awareness and appreciation for Jewish heritage and practices within the broader community.

The details

Passover, also known as Pesach, begins at sundown on April 1 this year and lasts until April 9. The holiday marks the biblical story of God freeing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. During Passover, families often hold ceremonial Seder dinners on the first two nights, featuring symbolic foods like matzah, bitter herbs, and wine. Ahead of the holiday, homes are thoroughly cleaned to remove any leavened 'chametz' products. There are also restrictions on certain activities like work, driving, and using electronics, depending on individual observance.

  • Passover begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
  • The holiday lasts for 8 days, ending on April 9, 2026.

The players

Clémence Boulouque

Associate professor of Jewish and Israel Studies at Columbia University in New York.

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The takeaway

Passover is a deeply meaningful celebration of Jewish history and identity. While the traditions can seem complex to those unfamiliar, being respectful of the holiday's significance and customs is a meaningful way to support and engage with the Jewish community.