Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah: One More Day, All the Joy

After the week-long celebration of Sukkot, you might think it’s time to wrap up the holidays—but the finale is just beginning. Shemini Atzeret (Oct 13–15, 2025) and Simchat Torah are the hidden gems of the Jewish calendar—less about rituals, more about joy and connection.

Shemini Atzeret means “the eighth day of assembly.” Think of it as a bonus day with G‑d—a spiritual cool-down after Sukkot. In synagogue, there's a special prayer for rain (marking the start of Israel’s rainy season) and Yizkor, a moment to remember loved ones who have passed. In Israel it’s a one-day holiday; outside of Israel, it stretches over two days, with Simchat Torah as the grand finale.

Simchat Torah is pure celebration. We finish reading the Torah and immediately start it again from the beginning—because Jewish learning never stops. The whole community dances with Torah scrolls in joyous circles called hakafot. Everyone gets called up for an aliyah (including kids), and the atmosphere is electric—no solemnity, just unity and energy.

Even if you’ve never been to synagogue before, Simchat Torah is a great time to show up. You don’t need to know Hebrew or the prayers—just dance, clap, or stand back and take it all in. It’s one of Judaism’s most joyful, welcoming moments.