Yom Kippur in Tel Aviv 2016

Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement) is the holiest and one of the most solemn days of the Jewish calendar, when observant (and even many non-observant) Jews reflect on the past year, pray and ask for forgiveness from God and other people. You’ll immediately notice that Yom Kippur is much different than other Jewish holidays. Where most are celebrated with feasts and song, Yom Kippur is traditionally a fast day, during which people abstain from eating and drinking for 25 hours.

For tourists, Yom Kippur is an interesting experience. There are no radio or television broadcasts. There is no public transportation and the vast majority of Tel Aviv restaurants, shops, attractions and other businesses are closed. While some will undoubtedly find it a bit of an inconvenience, if you prepare beforehand, you can seize the day as an opportunity to appreciate a unique phenomenon and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Yom Kippur in Jerusalem 2015

This year Yom Kippur begins on the eve of Tuesday, October 11 and ends at night on Wednesday, October 12.

Things to do on Yom Kippur

While restaurants bars and clubs are mostly out of the question, the empty streets offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, as many Tel Avivians do by riding bicycles, hanging out in the park or on the beach. Still at a loss for what to do?

Check out our article on things to do on Yom Kippur >>

Coming for the High Holidays? Check out or index of the best hotels in Tel Aviv >>

Photo: Jakub Świadek/Flickr/CC BY-SA