Lag Ba’Omer
Lag Ba’omer is a joyful pause in the Omer period—a day that breaks from mourning and invites celebration. Observed on the 33rd day between Passover and Shavuot, it commemorates both the end of a historic plague among Rabbi Akiva’s students and the legacy of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. Today, it’s marked by bonfires, outdoor gatherings, music, and community events, bringing people together in a spirit of light, tradition, and renewal.
What is Lag Ba’Omer?
Lag Ba’omer, which falls on the 33rd day of the Omer count, is a lesser-known minor Jewish holiday. Lag Ba’omer celebrates the end of a plague that affected Rabbi Akiva’s students, and it is also a day to commemorate the yahrzeit (death anniversary) of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. It marks a break in the traditional period of mourning between Passover and Shavuot, and is characterized by bonfires, outdoor activities, music, and communal gatherings.
When is Lag Ba’Omer?
Lag Ba’omer will take place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, which is the 33rd day of the Omer and the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar.
How is Lag Ba’Omer celebrated?
The day is usually celebrated outdoors with bonfires, parades, playing with bows and arrows, and joyous community events. During the Omer period (except for Lag Ba’omer, traditionally one does not cut one’s hair and weddings are not scheduled). Lag Ba’omer has become a day for weddings.
Resources
Read:
- Learn more about Lag Ba’omer, what it means and why it is celebrated from My Jewish Learning.
Listen:
- My Jewish Learning – https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/lag-baomer/
- PJ Library – https://pjlibrary.org/beyond-books/holidays-for-kids/lagbomer