Festivals: Practices in Britain and Elsewhere

Festivals: Practices in Britain and Elsewhere

Rosh Hashanah

Celebrated as the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah holds special synagogue services where the shofar (ram’s horn) is blown.
Many Jews in Britain and around the globe exchange greetings, often wishing each other a good year.
The practice of Tashlich involves throwing bread crumbs into a large, flowing body of water, representing the casting away of sins.

Yom Kippur

Known as the Day of Atonement, dual aspects of Yom Kippur include seeking forgiveness and fasting.
Observant Jews spend much of the day in the synagogue, participating in prayer services.
After the concluding service, the shofar is blown once to signal the end of the fast.

Sukkot

The practice of building a sukkah, a temporary outdoor hut, and eating meals in it is widespread.
The Four Species (etrog, lulav, myrtle, willow) are shaken in a special ceremony each day during Sukkot.
In Britain, and many other parts of the world, communal Sukkah-building events can take place.

Hanukkah

Menorahs (Hanukkah) are lit in homes and public spaces, adding a new candle each night for eight nights.
Traditional foods like latkes and doughnuts, which are fried in oil, are enjoyed as part of Hanukkah.
Giving gifts and playing the dreidel game are popular activities during this festival.

Purim

The Book of Esther is often read aloud from a scroll at the synagogue during Purim.
Observant Jews often give charity to the poor (matanot la’evyonim) and exchange food gifts (mishloach manot).
In Britain and beyond, many celebrate Purim with a carnival-like atmosphere, often wearing costumes and masks.

Passover

The Seder meal is a central practice where symbolic foods are eaten and the story of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt is retold.
For the duration of the festival, leavened products (chametz) are avoided, while matzah, unleavened bread, is eaten.
Families often invite guests to their Seder, emphasizing the values of freedom and welcoming others.