As October approaches, this year’s Jewish High Holy Days, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, will fall in October. Rosh Hashanah begins on the evening of Wednesday, October 2, and concludes on Friday, October 4. Yom Kippur will start the evening of Friday, October 11, and end on Saturday, October 12. This article provides an overview of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur 2024, detailing observance in Hudson County and Northern New Jersey, including local shops to purchase traditional holiday foods like challah, bagels, and apples.
Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year and is one of the most significant days in Judaism. It starts on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month in the Jewish calendar. Customs for Rosh Hashanah include eating apples dipped in honey, symbolizing a sweet new year, and serving challah bread in a round shape, which represents continuity and the cycle of life. Greeting friends and family with “l’shana tova,” meaning “for a good year,” is a common practice.
The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is known as the Days of Awe or Yamim Noraim, focusing on reflection and repentance. During this time, it is believed that God writes in a book who will live and who will die for the upcoming year, allowing Jews ten days to reflect on their actions before the decision is sealed on Yom Kippur.
In 5784, Rosh Hashanah will start on the evening of October 2 and end on October 4. Hoboken Public Schools will be closed on October 3 in observance of the holiday.
Yom Kippur, which concludes the Days of Awe, is regarded as the holiest day in Judaism and is a day dedicated to atonement. Observant Jews fast for 24 hours from sundown to sundown, focusing on prayer, meditation, and seeking forgiveness. The day ends with a communal meal, with Ashkenazi Jews typically enjoying brunch-style foods like bagels and lox, while Sephardic Jews favor lighter fare.
Yom Kippur will commence on the evening of October 11 and conclude on October 12.
Local events for the High Holy Days include:
Temple Beth-El, located at 2419 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, will host various events for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, including services and family-oriented activities.
The United Synagogue of Hoboken, situated at 115 Park Avenue, Hoboken, is also offering a range of services for all ages, requiring registration for most events.
Chabad Young Professionals of Hoboken and Jersey City will hold dinners and services throughout the holidays, including Shofar and Tashlich services.
For those looking to purchase holiday foods, local farmers’ markets are excellent sources for fresh apples and honey. Additionally, several grocery stores will carry challah leading up to the holidays. Bagel shops in Hoboken and Jersey City are recommended for post-Yom Kippur breakfasts, featuring a selection of traditional Jewish delicacies.
Many synagogues have begun live-streaming services, providing options for home observance. Team HG wishes all who celebrate an early l’shana tova.