Rosh Hashanah 2026 — the Jewish New Year — begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, 2026 and continues through nightfall on Sunday, September 13, with the first full day falling on Saturday, September 12. Watch the time tick down on our live Rosh Hashanah countdown.
When is Rosh Hashanah 2026?
Rosh Hashanah falls on the first two days of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar, so its Gregorian date moves each year — usually landing in September or early October. Like all Jewish holidays it begins at sundown the evening before, so the celebration opens on the evening of September 11, 2026. It is the start of the High Holy Days, the ten-day period of reflection that culminates in Yom Kippur.
What does Rosh Hashanah mean?
The name means "head of the year" in Hebrew, and tradition marks it as the anniversary of the creation of the world. It is both a celebration of the new year and the beginning of a solemn season of introspection — a time to look back on the past year, seek forgiveness, and resolve to do better in the year ahead.
Rosh Hashanah traditions
- The shofar — a ram's horn sounded in a series of blasts that call worshippers to reflection.
- Apples and honey — apples dipped in honey express the wish for a sweet new year.
- Round challah — symbolising the cycle of the year and continuity.
- Tashlich — symbolically casting away sins by tossing breadcrumbs into flowing water.
- "Shanah Tovah" — the traditional greeting, meaning "a good year".
Count down to Rosh Hashanah
Follow the live Rosh Hashanah 2026 countdown, see when Yom Kippur and Passover fall, or create your own countdown to share the new year with family and friends.