Explore the biblical holidays, their meaning, and how they were celebrated. Learn about God’s appointed times and their connection to our faith.
What Are the Holidays in the Bible?
How many biblical holidays are there? When are they celebrated this year? These are questions worth exploring!
When we think about holidays, we often recall cherished memories—laughter around the dinner table, the excitement of gift-giving, and even the bittersweet remembrance of loved ones no longer with us. But what about the holidays in the Bible?
Did you know the word holiday comes from holy day? While modern holidays may feel far removed from biblical traditions, God established His own holy days in Scripture—many with incredible significance for believers today.
Let’s explore the biblical holidays, uncover their meaning, and see how they point us to God’s work in history—and in our lives today.
What Does the Bible Say About Holidays?
The Bible gives a framework for celebrating special times.
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Sabbath: A day of rest (Genesis 2:1-3).
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Feast days: God’s appointed times, called moed in Hebrew (Leviticus 23).
These holy days were not just rituals—they were God’s way of meeting with His people and reminding them of His mighty works.
Every holy day answers key questions:
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What is it called?
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When is it observed?
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How is it celebrated?
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Why is it significant?
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Where is it mentioned in Scripture?
The Biblical Holidays
1. Sabbath – Shabbat
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When: Weekly, seventh day
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How: A day of rest; no work
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Why: To remember God as Creator
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References: Genesis 2:1-3, Exodus 20:11
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2. Passover – Pesach
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When: Nissan 14 (Spring)
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How: Seder Meal and remembrance of God’s deliverance
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Why: Remembering the Exodus and Jesus as our Passover Lamb
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References: Leviticus 23:4-5
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3. Unleavened Bread – Chag HaMatzot
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When: Nissan 15–21 (Spring)
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How: No leavened bread; rest on first and last days
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Why: Recalling the children of Israel’s quick departure from Egypt
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References: Leviticus 23:6-8
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4. First Fruits
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When: Day after the Sabbath during Unleavened Bread
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How: Offer first fruits to God
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Why: Give thanks and trust God for provision and the rest of the harvest
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References: Leviticus 23:9-14
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5. Pentecost – Shavuot
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When: 50 days after First Fruits (Summer)
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How: Offer summer harvest first fruits; celebrate God’s provision
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Why: God gave the Law at Sinai; Christians celebrate the giving of the Holy Spirit
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References: Leviticus 23:15-22
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6. Feast of Trumpets – Rosh Hashanah
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When: Tishrei 1 (Fall)
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How: Rest, gather, blow trumpets
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Why: Start of 10 Day period of repentance and reflection leading to the Day of Atonement
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References: Leviticus 23:22-25
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7. Day of Atonement – Yom Kippur
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When: Tishrei 10 (Fall)
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How: Fasting, prayer, rest
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Why: Day of repentance; Jesus’ ultimate atonement
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References: Leviticus 23:26-32, Hebrews 9:11-15
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8. Feast of Tabernacles – Sukkot
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When: Tishrei 15–22 (Fall)
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How: Live in booths; rejoice before the Lord
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Why: Recalling Israel’s wilderness journey and God’s provision for the 40 years in the wilderness
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References: Leviticus 23:33-44
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Other Biblical Holidays
1. Purim
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When: Adar 14–15 (Spring)
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How: Feasting and gift-giving
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Why: Remember Esther’s role in saving God’s people from death
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References: Esther 1–10
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2. Feast of Dedication – Hanukkah (Feast of Lights)
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When: Kislev 25–Tevet 2 (Winter)
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How: Light candles for eight nights
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Why: Rededication of the Temple; God’s provision
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References: John 10:22; 1 Maccabees
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Christian Holidays and Biblical Connections
Christmas
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When: December 25
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How: Gather, exchange gifts, reflect on the coming of Jesus the first time
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Why: Celebrate Jesus’ birth
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References: Matthew 1, Luke 2
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Easter – Resurrection Day
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When: First Sunday after first full moon after spring equinox
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How: Worship and celebrate Jesus’ victory over death and the grave
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References: Luke 24:3-8, Mark 16:5-7
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Why Remember These Holidays?
God’s holidays are more than calendar dates—they are opportunities to remember His faithfulness and pass biblical stories to the next generation.
Take time this year to mark these special dates on your calendar. Reflect, worship, and celebrate the incredible things God has done!
Want to dive deeper? Check out our Biblical Calendar and Notes
