ל"ג בעומר
Lag BaOmer
Lag BaOmer marks the 33rd day of the Omer count, celebrating the end of a plague among Rabbi Akiva's students and the yahrzeit of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai.
When is Lag BaOmer 2026?
Observed on
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Lag BaOmer is observed on the 18th of Iyar, the 33rd day of the Omer counting period, typically falling in May.
Significance
Lag BaOmer celebrates the end of the plague among Rabbi Akiva's students and the mystical teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, author of the Zohar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lag BaOmer
Bonfires on Lag BaOmer symbolize the spiritual light brought by Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai through his mystical teachings in the Zohar. Before his death on this date, he revealed the deepest secrets of the Torah, filling the day with great spiritual light.
The semi-mourning restrictions of the Omer period (no weddings, haircuts, or live music) are lifted on Lag BaOmer because it marks the day the plague among Rabbi Akiva's 24,000 students ceased. Three-year-old boys traditionally receive their first haircut (upsherin) on this day.
About Lag BaOmer
Lag BaOmer (ל"ג בעומר) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Lag BaOmer 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.