Shavuot is a significant Jewish holiday that marks the conclusion of the Counting of the Omer. Known as the "Feast of Weeks," it is a time of profound spiritual significance and joyful celebration. Shavuot commemorates the single most important event in Jewish history: the giving of the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. It is a holiday defined by greenery, study, and a unique focus on the land’s natural bounty.
When is Shavuot 2026?
In 2026, Shavuot begins at sundown on Thursday, May 21st, and ends at nightfall on Saturday, May 23rd. Because it is a two-day holiday (outside of Israel) that leads directly into Shabbat this year, preparing your gifts and meals in advance is especially important for a seamless celebration.
Why does the date of Shavuot change?
Like all Jewish holidays, Shavuot follows the Hebrew lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. It occurs on the 6th day of the Hebrew month of Sivan. Shavuot is unique because the Torah does not give it a specific calendar date; instead, it instructs us to count seven full weeks (49 days) from the second night of Passover. The 50th day is Shavuot.
What are the symbols of Shavuot?
Shavuot is a multi-faceted holiday with several beautiful symbols that dictate how we celebrate and what we eat:
The Torah (Mount Sinai): We celebrate receiving the Law. Many stay up all night studying (Tikkun Leil Shavuot) to show our excitement for these teachings
Greenery and Flowers: It is traditional to decorate homes and synagogues with fresh flowers and branches. This reminds us that Mount Sinai, typically a barren desert mountain, miraculously bloomed with flowers in anticipation of the giving of the Torah
Dairy (Milchigs): It is a widespread custom to eat dairy foods like cheesecake and blintzes. One reason is that the Torah is compared to "milk and honey." Another is that upon receiving the laws of Kashrut at Sinai, the Israelites ate dairy meals while they prepared their kitchens to meet the new kosher standards
The First Fruits (Bikkurim): In ancient times, Shavuot marked the beginning of the harvest. Farmers would bring baskets of their "First Fruits" to the Temple as an offering of gratitude.
How to Celebrate Shavuot
Beyond the synagogue services and night-long study sessions, Shavuot is celebrated with festive meals. Because the holiday celebrates the harvest, the table is often adorned with the best fruits of the season.
Gifting is also a central part of the holiday spirit. While dairy is a popular theme, fruit-based gifts are the most traditional way to honor the "Festival of the First Fruits." At Broadway Basketeers, our 100% Kosher certified fruit collections are the perfect way to bring the spirit of the ancient harvest to your host’s table.
