Passover 2025 Dates: A Comprehensive Guide
Passover, also known as Pesach, is one of the most important Jewish holidays, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Knowing the exact dates is crucial for planning celebrations and observing the holiday's traditions.
When is Passover 2025?
Passover in 2025 begins at sundown on Friday, April 18th and ends at sundown on Saturday, April 26th. This means the eight-day festival will span from the evening of April 18th through the evening of April 26th. Keep in mind that the dates are based on the Hebrew lunar calendar, which can shift slightly from year to year in the Gregorian calendar.
Understanding the Passover Calendar
The dates of Passover are determined by the Hebrew lunar calendar. It's a lunisolar calendar, meaning it's based on both the cycles of the moon and the sun. This makes the dates vary each year in the Gregorian calendar. The first day of Passover always falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nissan.
The eight-day celebration includes:
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Seder Nights: The first two nights (April 18th and 19th in 2025) are traditionally celebrated with a Seder, a special ritual dinner where the story of the Exodus is recounted. Many families and communities hold elaborate Seders filled with symbolic foods and readings.
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Remaining Days: The remaining six days are also observed as holy days, with special prayers and restrictions on work.
Planning for Passover 2025
Knowing the dates well in advance allows for thorough preparation:
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Seder Preparation: Gathering family and friends, purchasing Seder plates and supplies, and planning the Seder meal should be done well in advance.
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Travel Arrangements: If you plan to travel for Passover, book flights and accommodations early, as this is a peak travel period for many Jewish communities.
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Food Preparation: Many Passover recipes require specific ingredients and preparation time. Planning and shopping ahead are crucial, particularly for those observing strict kosher for Passover dietary laws.
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Community Events: Check with your local synagogue or Jewish community center for scheduled services and events during Passover.
Key Takeaways
- Passover 2025 begins at sundown on Friday, April 18th and concludes at sundown on Saturday, April 26th.
- The Hebrew calendar's lunisolar nature causes annual variations in Passover dates on the Gregorian calendar.
- Planning ahead is essential for a meaningful and enjoyable Passover celebration.
This information should help you plan effectively for Passover 2025. Remember to consult a Jewish calendar or your local rabbi for the most accurate and up-to-date details. Happy Passover!
