From the Seder to symbolic foods, here’s what to know about the Jewish holiday and the traditions that define it.
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Judaism. Beginning at sundown on Wednesday, April 1 and ending the evening of Thursday, April 9, the holiday commemorates the story of the ancient Israelites’ escape from slavery in Egypt. For many Jewish families, Passover is a time of reflection, tradition and togetherness, marked by meaningful rituals and special foods.
1: Passover is centered on the story of freedom.
At the heart of the holiday is the biblical story of the Exodus, in which Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt after generations of oppression. Because of that, Passover is a time to remember the journey from hardship to freedom and the resilience that came with it. For many families, the holiday is not only about remembering history, but also about reflecting on the value of freedom, gratitude and perseverance in everyday life.
2: The Seder is one of the most important Passover traditions.
On the first nights of Passover, many families gather for a special ceremonial meal called a Seder, translating to “order” in Hebrew. During the Seder, participants follow a traditional sequence of prayers, readings, songs and storytelling from a book called the Haggadah. One of the best-known moments of the evening is when the youngest person at the table asks, “Why is this night different from all other nights?” The meal is designed to help families retell the Passover story and pass traditions from one generation to the next, often in a fun and creative way, with toys and props to engage children.
3: Many of the foods eaten during Passover are symbolic.
Passover is especially known for its meaningful foods, many of which help tell the story of the holiday. One of the most recognizable is matzah, an unleavened flatbread eaten during Passover. According to tradition, the Israelites fled Egypt so quickly that there was no time for their bread to rise. A traditional Seder plate also includes symbolic foods such as bitter herbs, representing the bitterness of slavery, and charoset, a sweet mixture that symbolizes the mortar used by enslaved Israelites. Together, these foods help bring the story to life in a hands-on and memorable way.
For many, Passover is both a religious observance and a joyful opportunity to gather with loved ones, honor tradition and celebrate family.
