Yom HaShoah 2026

Halachic Framework

Yom HaShoah is a modern Israeli commemoration rather than a halachic holiday. There are no changes to the prayer service or work restrictions; observance is expressed through state ceremonies, memorial customs, and educational programs. Religious communities have adopted various liturgical customs (such as Psalms or special prayers) without establishing binding obligations.

Customs & Observances

• Nationwide two-minute siren at 10:00 AM in Israel
• Lighting memorial candles
• Memorial ceremonies and testimony gatherings with survivors
• Wreath-laying at memorials and at Yad Vashem

Greetings & Blessings for Yom HaShoah

Traditional greetings used before, during, and after Yom HaShoah:

• No festive greetings are exchanged on Yom HaShoah, as it is a day of mourning and remembrance.

בעברית:

• ביום השואה לא נהוג להחליף ברכות חג, שכן זהו יום זיכרון ואבל לאומי.

About Yom HaShoah

Yom HaShoah (Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day) is observed on the 27th of Nissan, marking the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. It was established by Israeli law in 1953 as a national day of remembrance for the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust.

Also known as: Holocaust Remembrance Day, Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day

Jewish holidays begin at sunset on the evening before the date shown and conclude at nightfall (when three medium stars are visible) on the final day. In the Diaspora, major Torah festivals are observed for two days (Yom Tov Sheni shel Galuyot), while in Israel they are observed for one day.