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Yom Kippur

יום כיפור
Fall — 10 Tishrei

G'mar Chatimah Tovah

What is Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest and most solemn day of the Jewish year. It is the culmination of the Ten Days of Repentance that began on Rosh Hashanah.

For 25 hours, Jews fast completely — no food, no water — and spend the day in intense prayer and reflection. It is a day to confront one's shortcomings honestly, seek forgiveness, and commit to growth.

The day concludes with the Ne'ilah service, a powerful closing prayer as the "gates of heaven" symbolically close, followed by a single, long blast of the shofar.

Traditions & Customs

1
Complete 25-hour fast (no food or water)
2
Kol Nidrei — the haunting opening prayer on Yom Kippur eve
3
Wearing white as a symbol of purity
4
Yizkor memorial prayers for the departed
5
Ne'ilah — the closing service at sunset
6
Breaking the fast with family and community

Learn More About Yom Kippur

Celebrate Yom Kippur with L'Chaim Center

Join our community for Yom Kippur programs, events, and celebrations on Chicago's North Shore.