Sukkot in Israel: September 25th-October 2nd, 2026 with Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah on October 3 which is Shabbat Sukkot is a celebratory Jewish festival that occurs each fall and is part of the High Holiday season. Just like Passover, Sukkot is one of two week-long festivals celebrated in Israel. It’s a truly unique time to be visiting Israel. The first and last days of Sukkot are national holidays when most businesses will be closed (similar to a regular Shabbat), whilst the intermediary days are semi-regular business days. Many Israelis work half days or take time off to celebrate with their families. The result is that there are loads of activities for Sukkot across Israel. This period is one of the most exciting times to visit the country. In 2026, the Sukkot festival falls between September 25th and October 2nd, while holiday events take place slightly before and after these dates. After Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Israel moves into a time of high festivity with Sukkot. Traditionally, Jewish people will move out of their homes into a self-fashioned hut during the week of Sukkot where they will sleep and eat for the whole week. In Israel, Sukkot signals the end of the summer months. This tradition of sleeping outdoors is one of the last times that many Israelis will camp until the following spring. Many restaurants, bars, and cafes join in on the tradition of serving food in a hut. You’ll most likely find yourself dining under a canopy of bamboo or palm leaves throughout the festival. As a designated time of joy and celebration in the Jewish calendar, Israel comes alive with parades, street parties, and music festivals throughout the week.
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