when does fast start yom kippur

Yom Kippur 2026, the holiest day in Judaism, falls on the 10th of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar. The fast begins at sundown on Sunday, September 20, 2026 , and concludes at nightfall on Monday, September 21, spanning a traditional 25-hour period of abstinence from food and drink.

Fasting Details

The fast starts precisely at sunset, marking the onset of Yom Kippur observance with Kol Nidre prayers in synagogues. Observers typically enjoy a pre-fast meal earlier that day, focusing on light, nourishing foods to sustain through intensive prayer and reflection.

Nightfall the next evening signals the end, often celebrated with a break-fast meal shared with family or community.

Observance Traditions

• Prayer focus : Five services, emphasizing repentance, atonement, and spiritual renewal.
• Customs : Wearing white garments symbolizes purity; abstaining from work, bathing, leather shoes, and marital relations heightens the day's solemnity.

• Exceptions : Children under 13, pregnant women, the elderly, or those with health issues may be exempt to prioritize well-being.

Preparation Tips

Plan ahead by checking local sunset times (varying by location, e.g., around 7 PM in many U.S. areas). Hydrate well pre-fast and prepare simple break-fast foods like bagels or dairy dishes for recovery. Community forums highlight personal stories of growth, like adapting traditions across regions, reinforcing that sincere effort counts most.

TL;DR : Fast starts sundown Sept 20, 2026 ; ends nightfall Sept 21—mark your calendar for atonement and renewal.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.