when is passover 2026 in usa

Passover 2026 in the USA begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1, and concludes after nightfall on Thursday, April 9. This eight-day observance aligns with traditions followed by most American Jewish communities outside Israel.

Key Dates

Jewish holidays start at sundown and end at nightfall the following evening, so precise timing matters for Seders and observances.

Event| Date and Time| Notes 159
---|---|---
First Seder| April 1, sundown| Official start; retelling of Exodus story.
Second Seder| April 2, sundown| Traditional in Diaspora (USA).
Passover Ends| April 9, nightfall| Some observe 7 days, ending April 8 nightfall. 13

Traditions in the USA

Passover, or Pesach, celebrates the Israelites' liberation from Egypt, emphasizing freedom and renewal with no leavened foods (chametz). Families host Seders with matzah, bitter herbs, and four cups of wine, often blending Ashkenazi and Sephardic customs popular stateside. In 2026, expect community events in cities like New York and Los Angeles, with schools and businesses potentially adjusting schedules—though it's not a federal holiday.

Variations by Community

• Orthodox/Reform : Most US Jews keep 8 days; Israeli tradition is 7.

• Preparation : Homes cleaned of chametz beforehand; Haggadah readings guide Seders.
• Modern Twists : Vegan or gluten-free adaptations trending, per recent discussions.

This lines up across calendars like Chabad, Hebcal, and timeanddate for 5786 Hebrew year. TL;DR: April 1-9 evenings, Seders April 1-2.

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