The Jewish New Year, known as Rosh Hashanah, marks the beginning of the High Holy Days in the Jewish calendar. It is a significant religious observance focused on reflection, repentance, and renewal. Unlike the Gregorian New Year on 1 January, Rosh Hashanah follows the Hebrew lunar calendar and typically falls in September or early October.
For 2026 and 2027, Rosh Hashanah will be observed on the following dates:
- Rosh Hashanah 2026: Begins at sunset on Friday 11 September 2026 and ends at nightfall on Sunday 13 September 2026
- Rosh Hashanah 2027: Begins at sunset on Friday 1 October 2027 and ends at nightfall on Sunday 3 October 2027
Jewish holidays begin at sunset on the evening before the listed Gregorian date and conclude after nightfall on the final day.
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What Is Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah means “Head of the Year” in Hebrew. It marks the beginning of the Jewish civil year and commemorates the creation of the world according to Jewish tradition.
It is observed on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. The holiday begins a ten-day period known as the Days of Awe, which concludes with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
Religious Significance
Rosh Hashanah is considered a day of judgment in Jewish belief. According to tradition:
- God reviews the deeds of each individual
- People reflect on their actions over the past year
- Prayers focus on repentance and spiritual renewal
The High Holy Days emphasise self-examination, forgiveness, and moral accountability.
Key Traditions and Customs
1. Blowing the Shofar
A central ritual of Rosh Hashanah is the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn. The shofar produces specific sounds during synagogue services and symbolises awakening and spiritual reflection.
2. Festive Meals
Families gather for special meals that include symbolic foods representing hope for a sweet and prosperous year.
Common foods include:
- Apples dipped in honey to symbolise sweetness
- Round challah bread representing continuity
- Pomegranates symbolising abundance
- Fish head representing leadership and progress
3. Tashlich Ceremony
Many Jewish communities perform Tashlich, a symbolic ritual where individuals cast breadcrumbs into flowing water to represent casting away sins.
4. Prayer Services
Extended synagogue services are held over two days. Special prayers focus on repentance, kingship, and remembrance.
Work and Public Observance
Rosh Hashanah is not a UK public bank holiday, but many Jewish employees request leave to observe the holiday. In areas with significant Jewish communities, schools and workplaces may experience higher absence levels.
Employers are encouraged to accommodate religious observance requests where reasonably practicable under UK equality laws.
How the Jewish Calendar Works
The Jewish calendar is lunisolar, meaning it follows both lunar months and solar cycles. Because of this:
- Jewish holidays shift each year in the Gregorian calendar
- Rosh Hashanah typically falls in September or early October
- Each holiday begins at sunset, not midnight
The Hebrew year number also differs from the Gregorian year. For example:
- Rosh Hashanah 2026 marks the beginning of Hebrew year 5787
- Rosh Hashanah 2027 marks the beginning of Hebrew year 5788
Preparing for Rosh Hashanah
Preparation typically includes:
- Attending synagogue services
- Seeking forgiveness from others
- Donating to charity
- Hosting or attending family meals
- Reflecting on personal goals for the new year
Many people also send greeting cards or messages wishing others “Shanah Tovah,” meaning “Good Year.”
Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings
1. Confusing It With Yom Kippur
Rosh Hashanah begins the High Holy Days, while Yom Kippur concludes them.
2. Assuming It Lasts One Day
In most Jewish communities, Rosh Hashanah is observed for two days.
3. Thinking It Is Only a Celebration
While festive meals are common, the holiday has a serious spiritual focus on reflection and repentance.
4. Not Recognising Sunset Start Times
The holiday begins at sunset, which may affect travel or work arrangements.
FAQs: Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah)
When is Rosh Hashanah in 2026?
It begins at sunset on Friday 11 September 2026 and ends at nightfall on Sunday 13 September 2026.
When is Rosh Hashanah in 2027?
It begins at sunset on Friday 1 October 2027 and ends at nightfall on Sunday 3 October 2027.
Is Rosh Hashanah a public holiday in the UK?
No, it is not an official bank holiday, but many people take annual leave to observe it.
What greeting is used for Jewish New Year?
Common greetings include “Shanah Tovah,” meaning “Good Year.”
Why is the challah bread round?
Round challah symbolises the cycle of the year and continuity of life.
Final Thoughts
The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, is a deeply meaningful observance centred on reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth. Observed over two days, it marks the beginning of the Hebrew year and opens the High Holy Day period that culminates in Yom Kippur.
For those observing in 2026 or 2027, planning ahead is important, particularly regarding work schedules, school attendance, and community services. Whether through prayer, family meals, or personal reflection, Rosh Hashanah provides an opportunity to begin the year with intention and purpose.