Passover (Pesach) is a Jewish holiday commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt, as told in the Book of Exodus. It is observed with the Seder meal, the retelling of the Exodus story, and the avoidance of leavened bread to honor themes of freedom, resilience, and faith.

Tisha B’av is a solemn Jewish fast day that commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, along with other tragedies in Jewish history. It is observed with a 25-hour fast, mourning rituals, the reading of the Book of Lamentations, and sitting on the floor or low stools in grief. The day reflects themes of loss, exile, and the hope for future redemption and rebuilding.

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, marking the beginning of the High Holy Days and a time of reflection, renewal, and hope. It is traditionally celebrated with festive meals, the sounding of the shofar (ram’s horn), and prayers for a sweet and meaningful year ahead. The holiday invites introspection, setting intentions, and seeking forgiveness as the new year begins.

Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar and is dedicated to repentance, reflection, and forgiveness. It is observed with a 25-hour fast, prayer, and attending synagogue services, where individuals seek to atone for their sins and start the new year with a clean slate. The day emphasizes spiritual renewal, humility, and reconciliation with oneself, others, and God.

Sukkot is a week-long Jewish festival that commemorates the Israelites' journey through the desert after the Exodus from Egypt, living in temporary shelters. It is celebrated by building and dwelling in a sukkah, a hut-like structure, and by waving the lulav and etrog, symbols of the harvest and unity. Sukkot is a joyful time that emphasizes gratitude, hospitality, and connection to nature and community.

Shemini Atzeret is a Jewish holiday that follows the seven days of Sukkot and is considered a separate yet connected festival. It is a time of spiritual reflection and prayer for rain (in Israel), marking the start of the agricultural season. While it lacks specific rituals like the sukkah or lulav, it emphasizes the intimate relationship between the Jewish people and God.

Simchat Torah is a joyful Jewish holiday that marks the completion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new cycle. Celebrated immediately after Sukkot, it is filled with singing, dancing, and parading the Torah scrolls around the synagogue. The holiday expresses deep love and reverence for the Torah and the ongoing commitment to its teachings.

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. Each night, a candle is lit on the menorah, and traditions include playing dreidel, eating foods fried in oil, and spending time with family. The holiday honors themes of faith, resilience, and light in times of darkness.