Yom Kippur 2026
David Chelly, January 19, 2026
The best-known and most widely observed Jewish holiday, Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement and repentance. In 2026, it is observed from the evening of Sunday, September 20 until nightfall on Monday, September 21, according to local time. The holiday lasts about 25 hours and is marked by a fast of the same length.
The meaning of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur allows individuals to atone for their sins against God and closes the Ten Days of Repentance that follow Rosh Hashanah. The central idea is to refocus, acknowledge one's wrongdoings, and commit to making amends, both in one's relationship with God and in relationships with others, since wrongs done to other people also call for apologies and concrete efforts at repair.
The fast and the practices
The fast begins a few minutes before sunset and ends after nightfall the following day. In addition to abstaining from food and drink, the day is traditionally devoted to reflection and prayer, with an important place given to synagogue services. The evening before, the Kol Nidre service opens the observance, and the day concludes with the Neilah prayer and the sounding of the shofar, marking the end of the fast.
Dates and times in 2026
The civil dates indicate the main day, but the start and end of Yom Kippur depend on sunset and nightfall in your city. For precise, minute-level timing, it is recommended to refer to the times published by your synagogue, a community calendar, or a local Hebrew calendar, since a few minutes of margin are traditionally added at the beginning and end.
Preparing and well-wishing
Preparation is often simple and practical, involving organizing meals before the holiday begins, adopting a calmer pace, and paying close attention to the intention of the day. People often wish one another "Gmar chatima tova," a wish for a good inscription and a good "sealing" for the year ahead.