Sukkot is celebrated with various festive activities, including:
Dwelling in the Sukkah: Jews build and dwell in a sukkah, a temporary hut with a roof made of natural materials such as branches and leaves. Meals are eaten in the sukkah, and some people even sleep in it to fully observe the commandment.
The Four Species: During Sukkot, Jews perform a ritual with the Four Species (arba minim): the etrog (citron), lulav (palm branch), hadass (myrtle), and aravah (willow). These are waved together in all six directions (north, south, east, west, up, and down) to symbolize God's presence everywhere.
Festive Meals: Sukkot is marked by joyous meals in the sukkah. Traditional foods include:
- Stuffed vegetables such as cabbage, grape leaves, and peppers, symbolizing a bountiful harvest.
- Challah bread, often braided into round shapes.
- Fruits and vegetables, especially those associated with the harvest season.
- Various meat and vegetarian dishes, wine, and desserts.
Clothing and Decorations: People dress in their finest holiday clothing. The sukkah is often decorated with fruits, vegetables, and other symbols of the harvest. Decorations may include hanging gourds, paper chains, and artwork created by children.
Synagogue Services: Special prayers and readings from the Torah are performed, including the Hallel (Psalms of praise) and the reading of the Book of Ecclesiastes.
Sukkot concludes with Hoshana Rabbah, the seventh day, followed by Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which mark the end of the holiday season.
