Jewish Holidays at Unpacked

What are the Three Weeks? Understanding the saddest days of the Jewish calendar

Why do Jews mourn for three weeks every summer? Here’s what the Three Weeks commemorate and how the period is observed today.

Is Shavuot more important than Yom Kippur in Judaism?

Shavuot and Yom Kippur are separate holidays. But in Judaism, they tell one story about revelation, failure, and rebuilding the covenant.

Passover readings and prayers about Israel, Iran, Ukraine, and antisemitism to add to your 2026 seder

Every Passover tells the same story — but no two seders feel the same. These readings and prayers help bring this year’s fears, questions, and hopes to the table.

The Haggadah: The book of the people of the book

10 essential Haggadah phrases to know for Passover

Each year, Jewish families gather at the Passover seder to tell the Exodus story. Let’s unpack 10 essential expressions from the Haggadah.

Why do Jewish people sell their bread before Passover?

Someone is willing to buy that granola bar in your gym bag. The catch? You’ll end up owning it again, and it will likely never leave your house.

Passover greetings: What to say to your Jewish friends on Passover

You might be wondering how to greet your Jewish friends during Passover. Is “Happy Passover” enough? Are there more traditional or thoughtful phrases to use? We’ve got you covered!

Passover guide 2026: How and when to celebrate the Jewish holiday

Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about the Jewish holiday of Passover, and how to celebrate it.

When is Passover 2026?

Whether you’re the one leading the Seder or just there for the brisket and charoset, it’s time to mark your calendars for Passover 2026.

Queen Esther’s Purim Cheese Sambusak

From Shushan to your oven: cheese sambusak, a Purim tradition that remembers Esther’s courage, one hidden filling at a time.

Shushan Purim explained: Why Jerusalem celebrates one day later than the rest of the world

Jerusalem celebrates Purim a day later than most Jews. Learn the Megillah source, the “walled cities” rule, and why the dates differ.

Everything you need to celebrate Purim 2026

Purim is one of the most festive and joyous occasions of the year! Are you ready for this raucous celebration of the story of Esther?

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