Rosh Hashanah — 18 September

Happy New Year — or “sha-NA to-VAH” — which in Hebrew, roughly means “good year”!

This year, we celebrate the Jewish New Year from sundown on September 18 — through sundown on September  20.  Rosh Hashanah, which translates from Hebrew to the “head of the year,” is a two-day celebration that begins on the first day of Tishrei — the Jewish calendar’s first month. Thus, the day moves around on Western calendars — but typically falls in late September. Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the year 5780 on the Jewish calendar.

During Rosh Hashanah, Jews make take one or two days off from work — attending High Holy Day Services, gathering with family and friends, and preparing special meals. Symbolic foods include apples, honey, challah (egg bread), fish, couscous, and dates. 

The High Holy Days conclude 10 days later with the Jewish calendar’s most sacred day Yom Kippur.