Passover Begins (Apr 12th to Apr 20th)

Quick facts
When is it?	Apr 22nd, 2024 - Apr 30th, 2024 Apr 12th, 2025 - Apr 20th, 2025 Apr 1st, 2026 - Apr 9th, 2026 Apr 22nd, 2027 - Apr 29th, 2027
It's also known as:	Pesach
Tagged as:	Historical Interest Items & Things Religion & Belief
What are the hashtags?	#PassoverBegins #Pesach
We first published this page on:	Apr 21st, 2025
We last updated this page:	Apr 21st, 2025

Contents

Among the most solemn and meaningful observances in the Jewish calendar, Passover marks the beginning of an eight-day journey.

This holiday, known as Pesach in Hebrew, commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt.

The term “Passover” refers to the divine act of sparing the Israelites during the final plague, as described in the Book of Exodus.

This event is not just a historical milestone but a cornerstone of Jewish identity and faith. The rituals and traditions observed during this period serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom and justice.

More into the Tradition

As Passover begins, families around the world gather to reflect on themes of liberation and resilience. The Seder meal, central to the celebration, involves reading from the Haggadah, eating symbolic foods, and engaging in storytelling.

These practices are designed to instill a sense of continuity and connection to the past. The prohibition of leavened bread, or chametz, during this time symbolizes the haste in which the Israelites fled Egypt, leaving no time for their bread to rise.

Through these customs, Passover continues to inspire and educate, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and the pursuit of freedom.

How to Celebrate Passover

Here are several inviting ways to mark the start of Passover. Each one offers a chance to connect, reflect, and enjoy.

Host a Seder Dinner

Invite family or friends for a shared meal. Read stories aloud, taste symbolic dishes, and ask plenty of questions.

Make room for laughter and meaning at the same table. You don’t need to follow a script—just keep the spirit alive.

Try Matzo-Based Recipes

Swap your usual bread for matzo. Turn it into pizza, lasagna, or even sweet treats. Experiment with flavors while sticking to tradition. Even simple snacks can feel special with a bit of creativity.

Clean Your Space

Clear out anything with leavening from your kitchen. Use the moment to tidy, sort, and start fresh. This practice sets the tone for a focused, intentional week. Keep it fun by turning it into a group task.

Share the Story

Tell the story of the Exodus in your own words. Use drawings, short videos, or even puppets. Let kids and adults take turns. Bringing the tale to life helps everyone feel connected to its meaning.

Give to Others

Donate food, time, or essentials to someone in need. The heart of the holiday beats in small, thoughtful acts. Find a local cause that speaks to you. Kindness keeps the tradition growing strong.

History of Passover

Passover began thousands of years ago in ancient Egypt. It marks the moment when God freed the Israelites from slavery.

According to the Torah, God chose Moses to lead the people. God sent him to speak to Pharaoh, demanding the Israelites be released. When Pharaoh kept refusing, God sent ten powerful plagues to strike Egypt.

The final plague changed everything. God told the Israelites to mark their doors with lamb’s blood. That sign would protect their firstborns from the coming danger.

That night, God passed over their homes and struck the Egyptians. Pharaoh finally let the Israelites go. They left in a hurry, carrying only what they could. Their bread had no time to rise.

From that moment on, Jewish people remembered what God had done. They retell the story every year to honor that freedom.

Passover isn’t just about leaving Egypt—it’s about God’s promise and protection. Moses followed God’s word, and the people trusted that path.

Each spring, the story is brought to life again. The meal, the questions, and the traditions all point back to that night. God’s presence, power, and care remain at the heart of it all.