Shemini Atzeret begins tonight, and Simchat Torah follows Saturday

The fall season of Jewish holidays reaches its last stretch this weekend. As Sukkot ends, Shemini Atzeret begins at sundown tonight, Friday, October 2. Simchat Torah follows, beginning at sundown on Saturday, October 3, and ending after nightfall on Sunday, October 4. Jewish holidays start in the evening because the Jewish calendar day begins at sunset.

Chabad.org describes the holiday as a time of joy, Jewish pride and unity. The services include their own special readings and celebrations.

Its best-known custom is hakafot, processions in which people carry the Torah scrolls around the synagogue with singing and dancing. Hakafot take place on the evening that Simchat Torah begins and again the next morning, and some communities also hold them on the eve of Shemini Atzeret. Holiday candles are lit before sundown to welcome each day.

Many observant Jews do not work on these holiday days, so a coworker, classmate or neighbor may be unavailable from Friday evening through Sunday night. Planning around that, and saving non-urgent messages until Monday, is a kind gesture.

Chabad.org lists the dates for the next few years as well: in 2027 the holidays fall October 22 to 24, and in 2028 October 11 to 13, always beginning at sundown on the first date. That can help if you plan school or work calendars ahead.

If you would like to wish someone well, a simple "happy holiday" is warm and appropriate.