Some important Jewish holidays

holiday meaning date*

Passover commemoration of the Hebrews' liberation from slavery in Egypt and the "passing over" of the forces of destruction 7 or 8 days in March/April

Purim celebration of the survival of early Jews living under the rule of the Persians 1 day, usually in March

Shavuot remembrance of the day that God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on the 50th day after the beginning of Passover

Rosh Hashana beginning of the Jewish new year September/October

Yom Kippur Day of Atonement, seeking forgiveness for sins and a reconciliation with God the 9th day after Rosh Hashana

Sukkoth festival of thanksgiving 7 or 8 days in September/

October, beginning on the 5th day after Yom Kippur

Hanukkah festival commemorating a miracle at the Second Temple in Jerusalem and reaffirming the ideals of Judaism 8 days, usually in December

*Actual dates depend on the Jewish calendar.