Quick Answer: Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, 2026, and continues through nightfall on Sunday, September 13, marking the start of the Hebrew year 5787.
What Is Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah, meaning “head of the year,” is observed as the start of the Jewish calendar year and is considered a solemn day of reflection and divine judgment, distinct from the celebratory tone of the secular New Year. The central ritual observance is the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn.
Why It’s Relevant This Week
Because Rosh Hashanah 2026 falls on a Friday evening, it overlaps with the beginning of Shabbat, which affects how some communities observe certain rituals during the holiday. This year’s shofar blowing takes place on Sunday, September 13.
Key Details
- Begins: sundown, Friday, September 11, 2026.
- Ends: nightfall, Sunday, September 13, 2026.
- Marks the start of the Hebrew year 5787.
- Traditional foods include round challah bread and apples dipped in honey, symbolizing wishes for a sweet year.
- It is not a U.S. federal holiday but is widely observed by Jewish communities worldwide.
What Happens Next
Rosh Hashanah begins the Jewish High Holy Days, which culminate ten days later in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Rosh Hashanah 2026 start?
At sundown on Friday, September 11, 2026.
What year does Rosh Hashanah 2026 mark the start of?
The Hebrew year 5787.
What are common Rosh Hashanah traditions?
Blowing the shofar, eating apples dipped in honey, and round challah bread symbolizing a sweet new year.
Is Rosh Hashanah a U.S. public holiday?
No, it is not a federal holiday in the United States, though it is widely observed by Jewish communities.
Key Takeaways
- Rosh Hashanah 2026 begins at sundown on September 11.
- It marks the start of the Hebrew year 5787.
- The holiday concludes at nightfall on September 13.
- It opens the Jewish High Holy Days, leading to Yom Kippur ten days later.
