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Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah in Jerusalem marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year, characterized by a unique spiritual atmosphere and traditional religious observances. In 2026, the city hosts major prayer gatherings at the Western Wall and festive preparations at the Mahane Yehuda Market. Because the first day of the holiday coincides with the Sabbath, the traditional sounding of the shofar is scheduled for the second day.

Date
Sep 19-20, 2026
Location
Jerusalem
Status
Upcoming
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Rosh Hashanah
Date
Sep 19-20, 2026
Location
Jerusalem
Religious Festival Jewish New Year Spirituality

Event summary

Highlights

  • Shofar sounding at the Western Wall on the second day
  • Festive holiday atmosphere at Mahane Yehuda Market
  • Nighttime Selichot tours through the Old City and Nachlaot
  • Major prayer gatherings at the Western Wall Plaza
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is observed throughout Jerusalem with a combination of religious services and local cultural traditions. The holiday marks the start of the High Holiday season, drawing worshippers from around the world to the Western Wall for major prayers. In 2026, because the first day of the festival falls on Shabbat, the ceremonial sounding of the shofar is held only on the second day, Sunday, September 20.

Before the holiday begins, the Mahane Yehuda Market serves as a central location for experiencing the festive spirit, as stalls and bakeries offer traditional treats before closing early for the Sabbath. The season is also notable for Selichot tours, which take place late at night in the Old City and historic neighborhoods like Nachlaot. These guided walks visit ancient synagogues and courtyards where participants engage with traditional liturgical melodies and prayers.

The holiday serves as the gateway to the Ten Days of Repentance, leading into Yom Kippur and Sukkot. Due to high attendance at Jerusalem’s major synagogues, visitors are often encouraged to reserve seating in advance for prayer services during this peak pilgrimage period.

Practical details

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