Pesach (often spelled Passover in English) is a major Jewish spring festival that celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, as described in the Bible’s Book of Exodus. The name Pesach means “to pass over,” referring to the story in which God “passed over” the homes of the Israelites during the final plague on Egypt, sparing their firstborns. The holiday is marked by special meals called Seders, where families and friends eat symbolic foods like matzah (unleavened bread) and retell the Exodus story with prayers, readings, and rituals. Pesach also involves removing all chametz (leavened grain products) from the home for the duration of the festival.

In 2026, Pesach begins at sundown on Wednesday, 1 April, and continues through Thursday, 9 April outside Israel (eight days), with the first Seder on the evening of 1 April and a second Seder on 2 April (Diaspora observance).