How the Sukkot holiday is celebrated in Israel in 2026
The first day of Sukkot in 2026 falls on Saturday, September 26. The holiday lasts seven days, with the final day on October 3. The article details traditions: building a sukkah (booth), blessings over the four species, candle lighting, and the customs of Chol HaMoed—semi-festive days when it is customary to travel around the country and visit Jerusalem.
In 2026, the Sukkot holiday begins on the evening of Friday, September 25, with the first full day falling on Saturday, September 26. The holiday lasts seven days, until October 3. The article details key traditions: building a sukkah (booth) with a roof of palm branches through which the sky must be visible; the blessing of the four species (lulav, etrog, hadas, and aravah), which symbolize different groups of the Jewish people. On the first day, which falls on Saturday, the commandment of the four species is postponed to the next day. During Chol HaMoed (semi-festive days), it is customary to travel around the country, visiting parks and nature reserves. The final day, Hoshana Rabbah, resembles Yom Kippur—on this day, the final verdict is sealed in heaven. Immediately after Sukkot come Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which are celebrated on the same day in Israel. The article is informative and reference in nature, with no signs of propaganda or commerce.