Israel Weekends & Holidays

Weekend and Holiday Calendar for Israel

In Israel, the weekend falls on Friday (afternoon) and Saturday. The standard work week is SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday (morning).

Public Holidays 2026

Israel observes 8 official public holidays in 2026. On these days, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Tourist attractions may have limited hours or special schedules.

Holiday Calendar

• 2026-04-04: Passover (Pesach) begins - 7-8 days, many services closed
• 2026-04-23: Holocaust Remembrance Day - Yom HaShoah - sombre observance
• 2026-04-30: Remembrance Day - Memorial for fallen soldiers
• 2026-05-01: Independence Day - Yom Ha'atzmaut - major celebration
• 2026-05-24: Shavuot - Pentecost holiday
• 2026-09-24: Rosh Hashanah begins - Jewish New Year - 2 days
• 2026-10-03: Yom Kippur - Day of Atonement - entire country shuts down
• 2026-10-08: Sukkot begins - Feast of Tabernacles - 7 days

Best Times to Visit Israel

Understanding tourist seasons helps you plan better:

Peak Tourist Season

April - May, September - October

Shoulder Season

March, November

Low Season

June - August (hot), December - February

Travel Planning Tips

Best Travel Dates

• April-May, October-November (spring and fall)
• Avoid major Jewish holidays if you need services
• Yom Kippur - country completely shuts down, unique experience

Important Notes

• Shabbat (Saturday) - public transport stops, many businesses closed
• Friday afternoon everything closes early for Shabbat
• Jewish holidays follow lunar calendar
• Arab areas may have different schedules
• Sunday is a regular work day

Weekend Culture in Israel

The Friday (afternoon) and Saturday weekend affects business hours, transportation schedules, and tourist activities.