​Traditions & Holy Days

​One Jewish tradition is celebrated by Hanukkah, which falls in December. It honors a historical event. The ancient Jews wanted to celebrate a victory that had convinced their rulers to let them keep their religion. According to legend, though, the Jews did not have enough lamp oil to celebrate at the temple. Miraculously, the oil they had—enough for only one day—burned for eight full days.

​Traditions & Holy Days

​More important to Jews than Hanukkah, Passover is celebrated in March or April. During Passover, Jews honor the Exodus, the journey of the Israelites out of slavery.

​According to Jewish tradition, the Israelites left Egypt so quickly that bakers did not have time to let their bread rise. Therefore, during Passover, Jews eat only matzo, a flat, unrisen bread. They also celebrate the holiday with ceremonies.

​The two most sacred of all Jewish holidays are the High Holy Days. They take place in September or October. The first two days of celebration, Rosh Hashanah, celebrate the start of a new year in the Jewish calendar.