סוכות
Sukkot
Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, is a seven-day harvest festival commemorating the Israelites' 40-year journey in the desert when they lived in temporary shelters. Jews build and dwell in a sukkah (temporary hut) and wave the Four Species (lulav, etrog, hadassim, and aravot).
When is Sukkot 2026?
Begins at sunset
Friday, September 25, 2026
Ends at nightfall
Sunday, October 4, 2026
In Israel? Sukkot is observed for a shorter duration in Israel.
View Israel datesSukkot begins on the 15th of Tishrei, five days after Yom Kippur, typically in September or October. The seven-day festival is followed by Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. Jews eat meals and, when possible, sleep in the sukkah.
Significance
Sukkot celebrates God's protection during the Israelites' desert wanderings and the autumn harvest. Living in the sukkah reminds us of life's fragility and our dependence on God. It is called 'Z'man Simchateinu' (Season of Our Joy), as it is considered the most joyous of the festivals.
Sukkot Prayers
View the complete collection of prayers and blessings for Sukkot in Hebrew and English.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sukkot
When eating in the sukkah, the blessing 'Leishev BaSukkah' (to dwell in the sukkah) is recited after the blessing over bread or other foods. On the first night, Shehecheyanu is also added. The blessing thanks God for commanding us to dwell in booths.
The blessing 'Al Netilat Lulav' is recited while holding the lulav (palm), hadassim (myrtle), and aravot (willow) in the right hand and the etrog (citron) in the left. After the blessing, the species are brought together and waved in six directions (right, left, forward, up, down, backward).
Hoshanot are prayers recited while circling the bimah (Torah reading platform) with the Four Species during Sukkot morning services. On Hoshana Rabbah (the 7th day), seven circuits are made, and willow branches are beaten on the ground while special prayers are recited.
Full Hallel with a blessing is recited on all seven days of Sukkot, as well as on Shemini Atzeret. This is unique among festivals, as on Passover only half Hallel is said on most days. The Hallel is recited while holding the lulav and etrog.
About Sukkot
Sukkot (סוכות) is one of the important holidays in the Jewish calendar. This page provides the dates for Sukkot 2026 and information about its meaning and observance.
Looking for prayers? Am Hazak provides the complete text for Sukkot prayers in Hebrew with English translations. Visit our Sukkot prayers page for blessings and liturgy.