October Jewish Calendar 2026: Important Dates and Celebrations
Key Jewish Holidays in October 2026
The Jewish calendar is a lunisolar calendar, which means it's based on the cycles of the moon and the sun. In October 2026, the Jewish calendar will be filled with various holidays, observances, and traditions. The month of October corresponds to the Jewish months of Tishrei and Cheshvan. During this time, Jews around the world will be celebrating several significant holidays, including Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah.
One of the most notable holidays in October 2026 is Sukkot, a week-long celebration that begins on the 15th day of Tishrei. Sukkot is a joyous holiday that commemorates the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and the harvest season. Jews traditionally build and dwell in sukkahs, which are temporary outdoor structures, during this holiday. Another important holiday in October is Shemini Atzeret, which marks the beginning of the rainy season in Israel and is celebrated with prayer and festivities.
Observing Jewish Traditions in October
In addition to Sukkot and Shemini Atzeret, there are several other significant dates in the October Jewish Calendar 2026. These include the fast of Gedaliah, which commemorates the assassination of the Jewish governor of Judah, and the holiday of Simchat Torah, which celebrates the completion of the annual Torah reading cycle. Jews will also be observing the monthly holiday of Rosh Chodesh, which marks the beginning of the new Jewish month.