List of Jewish Festivals

Jewish Festival of Rosh Hashannah

Rosh Hashannah or what is sometimes called Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year and is celebrated according to the Jewish calendar, so it typically falls sometime in September to October. It is a day of reflecting the year that has passed and looking forward to the new year for many blessings as well as prosperity. The holiday is one of the High Holy Days and therefore, no work is allows on Rosh Hashannah. Orthodox Jews see work as anything including driving a car, while reformed Jews see driving to temple as acceptable. The celebration typically lasts for two days, during the first day, much of it is spent at the temple where the shofar, which is made from a goat horn, is blown.

During the end of Rosh Hashannah, it is traditional for Jews to find a river, stream of water, or even a creek and throw whatever is in their pockets into the water, which is referred to as Tashlikh. This is symbolic of disconnecting with the previous year so that they can enter the new year with no burdens or regrets. Finally, a meal celebrates the ending of the holiday that traditionally includes special dishes such as sliced apples that have been dipped in honey and fish.