Jewish Holidays

It is important to note that all Jewish holidays begin the evening before the date specified on most calendars. This is because a Jewish "day" begins and ends at sunset, rather than at midnight.

While each holiday is celebrated with its own traditions, it is important to note that the holidays listed below have specific restrictions that begin at sundown (when the holiday starts) and end one hour after sundown (when the holiday concludes). These restrictions include not using electricity, and electronics, not using writing utensils, driving or being in a moving vehicle, and not lighting a flame for any purpose.

These are restrictions that are also observed every week on the Jewish Sabbath, which is Friday at sundown until Saturday one hour after sundown.

The Jewish holiday dates will change year to year, as the Jewish calendar follows a lunar calendar.

*The first two days of Passover (April 1 and 2) and the last two days (April 8 and 9) have restrictions. The middle days of the eight day holiday do not. See the Passover Holiday Guide for more information.

Read the ASU Library explanation of Jewish holidays.

While personal religious practices may vary among students, students may ask for various types of accommodations when classes, tests, or other coursework is scheduled or due on a Jewish holiday.

For example, if a test is scheduled on one of the dates listed above, the student will need an accommodation to take the test on a different day.

If a class or meeting is scheduled close to sundown on a Friday, or another Jewish holiday, a student may need to leave early due to needing to get home before sundown, prepare for the Sabbath or other Jewish holiday, and ensure they are ready to observe the holiday.

If a due date for an assignment or exam falls on a Jewish holiday, this verbiage can be added to your syllabus or as an announcement in Canvas: If you have any conflicts or observe any specific religious holidays that will lead you to miss classes this semester, please reach out to me so we can make arrangements for you to take an exam/submit an assignment on a different date.