שמיני עצרת
Shmini Atzeret
Shmini Atzeret (the Eighth Day of Assembly) immediately follows Sukkot. It features the prayer for rain and the Yizkor memorial service.
When is Shmini Atzeret 2026?
Observed on
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Shmini Atzeret is observed on the 22nd of Tishrei, the day after Sukkot ends. In Israel, Simchat Torah is celebrated on the same day.
Significance
Shmini Atzeret is understood as God asking the Jewish people to stay an extra day after Sukkot. The prayer for rain marks the transition to the rainy season in Israel.
Shmini Atzeret Prayers
View the complete collection of prayers and blessings for Shmini Atzeret in Hebrew and English.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shmini Atzeret
Shmini Atzeret is a separate holiday from Sukkot, even though it follows immediately after. We no longer sit in the sukkah (in Israel) or wave the Four Species. The holiday has its own unique kiddush, and we recite Yizkor and the prayer for rain (Tefilat Geshem).
In Israel, Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are combined on a single day (22nd of Tishrei). In the diaspora, Shmini Atzeret is observed on the 22nd and Simchat Torah on the 23rd as separate days.
About Shmini Atzeret
Shmini Atzeret (שמיני עצרת) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Shmini Atzeret 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.
Looking for prayers? Am Hazak provides the complete text for Shmini Atzeret prayers in Hebrew with English translations. Visit our Shmini Atzeret prayers page for blessings and liturgy.