| Passover |
Judaism |
Spring |
Nationwide |
Family Seder, reading the Haggadah, symbolic foods |
Matzah, Charoset, Bitter Herbs |
Jerusalem, Synagogues |
| Yom Kippur |
Judaism |
Fall |
Nationwide |
Day of fasting, prayer, reflection; businesses closed |
Simple meals before/after fast |
Western Wall, Synagogues |
| Rosh Hashanah |
Judaism |
Fall |
Nationwide |
Blowing the shofar, family gatherings, prayers |
Apples with honey, Round Challah |
Jerusalem, Synagogues |
| Christmas |
Christianity |
Winter |
Bethlehem, Nazareth |
Church services, Nativity celebrations, parades |
Roast lamb, holiday desserts |
Church of the Nativity, Nazareth Basilica |
| Ramadan / Eid al-Fitr |
Islam |
Varies (Lunar Calendar) |
Mixed cities, e.g., Nazareth, Acre |
Fasting during daylight, nightly feasts, charity |
Dates, Sweets, Special meat dishes |
Mosques, Local Markets |
| Hanukkah |
Judaism |
Winter |
Nationwide |
Lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, gifts |
Latkes, Sufganiyot (jelly donuts) |
Synagogues, Public Squares |