Canada welcomes newcomers from diverse religious backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment for celebrating upcoming Jewish holidays across the country. Regardless of immigration status, Canadians enjoy guaranteed freedoms of thought, belief, and expression.
Between the years 1980 and 2021 Canada has experienced an increase, in the number of immigrants with more than 91,000 individuals arriving in the country. These immigrants come from countries such as Israel, the United States, Ukraine, Russia and Morocco. Their presence has greatly contributed to the fabric of society.
Interestingly an overwhelming majority of Canadas population over 98% resides in five provinces; Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Manitoba and Alberta. Notably Toronto stands out as a center that’s home to nearly half of the Jewish population in the country. Montreal also holds a significant number of Jews— a quarter of them call it home.
For Canadians September holds importance as it encompasses several important celebrations. Rosh Hashanah marks the start of their New Year. Serves as a time for introspection and fresh beginnings. Yom Kippur follows Rosh Hashanah. Is observed solemnly as a day for seeking forgiveness and repentance. Lastly Sukkot—the Feast of Tabernacles—brings communities together to commemorate events while reflecting on life’s impermanence. These celebrations foster a sense of identity and community, among Jewish people living in Canada.
Celebrating upcoming Jewish holidays across Canada – Rosh Hashanah
Starting at dusk on September 15, Rosh Hashanah, which marks the commencement of the Jewish calendar’s New Year, spans over a two-day period. Within Jewish households, this occasion holds immense significance as it serves as a moment for camaraderie and communal meals.
Traditionally, Rosh Hashanah prompts introspection as individuals gather with their loved ones to reflect upon the previous year. In Canada, numerous Jewish individuals seek reconciliation and express apologies to their dear ones as a means of embarking on a fresh start for the forthcoming year.
As part of Rosh Hashanah, challah bread is often used as part of the traditional meal, symbolizing unity and togetherness. This cherished tradition emphasizes the hope for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead as pomegranates and apples, dipped in honey, symbolize sweetness and good health.
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, also referred to as the Day of Atonement, is celebrated by Jewish communities as the conclusion of the new year period following Rosh Hashanah. This sacred day, which commences at twilight on September 24 and concludes on the evening of September 25, holds great significance in the Jewish calendar.
Yom Kippur is observed through abstinence from food and fervent supplication, emphasizing the belief that genuine remorse for past transgressions leads to a joyful New Year. The fasting period lasts for a challenging 25 hours. Numerous Canadian Jews participate in distinctive Yom Kippur rituals, which encompass soul-stirring melodies and thought-provoking readings that inspire spiritual revival.
During the “breaking of the fast,” many Jewish individuals celebrate Yom Kippur by sharing a festive potluck meal with friends, family, and community members after the fasting period has ended. The transition between reflection and repentance and a hopeful and joyous start to the new year symbolizes its significance.
Sukkot
Following Yom Kippur, Jewish communities celebrate Sukkot, a seven-day festival of harvesting. During this holiday, families and friends construct and decorate sukkot, temporary tents or booths symbolic of the occasion. The word “sukkot” comes from the Hebrew word for a temporary tent or booth called a “sukkah.” Nearly all household activities, including eating and praying, are conducted in the sukkah during the week.
The “four species,” a bundle of plants containing lulav (palm branches), hadasim (myrtle branches), and aravot (willow branches), are another integral part of Sukkot. An etrog (citron) is held along with a bundle of plants containing lulav (palm branches) and hadasim (myrtle branches). During this festive season, we come together as a community to celebrate Jewish unity.
Celebrating upcoming Jewish holidays across Canada
Canadian public holidays do not recognize these Jewish holidays as public holidays, so Jewish businesses and organizations keep closed on these days.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made an important gesture by acknowledging Rosh Hashanah in a statement last year. In his statement, he highlighted the importance of Rosh Hashanah as a time to recognize the significant contributions that Jewish communities in Canada have made. He emphasized the integral role that Jewish Canadians play in the growth and development of the nation. Additionally, Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed his government’s unwavering support for Jewish communities, firmly opposing hatred and antisemitism in any form. He confirmed Canada’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, ensuring that individuals are able to freely practice their traditions and take pride in their identity without fear or coercion. This statement further demonstrates Canada’s dedication to upholding the values of tolerance, diversity, and respect for all its citizens.
