Sukkot and Simchat Torah: The Basics

Sukkot is all about not taking things for granted, and it’s a time to give thanks—particularly for food and shelter. It begins on the eve of the 15th of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, five days after Yom Kippur, and like all Jewish holidays, it begins at sundown. After all the seriousness of Yom Kippur, Sukkot is a time to kick back and have a party. In blessings, Sukkot is referred to as “z’man simchateinu,” which translates as “the time of our celebrating,” and since the holiday lasts seven days, there’s plenty of time to enjoy.