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ט״וּ בִּשְׁבָט
Tu B'Shvat 2026

Hebrew year 5786

The New Year of the Trees

February 2, 2026

Tu B'Shvat is the 'New Year of the Trees,' a minor holiday that falls on the 15th of the Hebrew month of Shvat. Originally a date used for calculating the age of trees for tithing purposes, Tu B'Shvat has blossomed into a celebration of nature, ecology, and the Land of Israel. The day is marked by eating fruits, particularly the Seven Species of the Land of Israel, and by holding a Tu B'Shvat Seder, a mystical meal developed by the Kabbalists of Safed in the 16th century. In modern Israel, the day is associated with tree planting and environmental awareness. Many communities use Tu B'Shvat as an opportunity to reflect on our responsibility to care for the natural world.

Tu B'Shvat Traditions

How Jews observe Tu B'Shvat around the world.

1

Eating fruits from the Seven Species of the Land of Israel (wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, dates)

2

Holding a Tu B'Shvat Seder with four cups of wine (white to red, symbolizing the seasons)

3

Planting trees, especially in Israel through organizations like JNF (Keren Kayemet)

4

Eating 15 different fruits in honor of the 15th of Shvat

5

Trying a new fruit for the first time and reciting the Shehecheyanu blessing

6

Studying Torah texts about trees, nature, and the Land of Israel

7

Environmental activities and ecological awareness programs in schools and communities

Tu B'Shvat Food Guide

Traditional foods and where to find them.

Dried Fruits and Nuts

Dried figs, dates, apricots, and almonds are central to Tu B'Shvat celebrations. Many families set out platters of assorted dried fruits for the occasion.

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Seven Species Platter

A display of the Seven Species of the Land of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates. Each species holds biblical and spiritual significance.

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Pomegranates

Pomegranates are a beloved Tu B'Shvat fruit, said to contain 613 seeds corresponding to the 613 mitzvot. Fresh pomegranate, juice, and pomegranate-based dishes are all popular.

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Carob (Bokser)

Carob pods, also called St. John's bread, are a traditional Tu B'Shvat treat. Carob is native to Israel and has been eaten since ancient times.

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Kashrut Notes for Tu B'Shvat

  • Tu B'Shvat has no special kosher restrictions beyond standard kashrut; it is a minor holiday with no work prohibitions

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables do not require kosher certification, but dried fruits and nuts should be checked for kosher certification as they may contain non-kosher additives or coatings

  • Wine for the Tu B'Shvat Seder must be kosher-certified; four cups are served progressing from white to red

  • Israeli-grown produce has special halachic considerations including terumot and maaserot (tithes) and orlah (fruit from trees less than three years old)

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Tu B'Shvat FAQs

Common questions about Tu B'Shvat 5786.

When is Tu B'Shvat 2026?

Tu B'Shvat 2026 falls on Monday, February 2. The holiday begins at sundown on Sunday, February 1, and continues through Monday, February 2. It is a single-day observance.

What is Tu B'Shvat?

Tu B'Shvat, literally the '15th of Shvat,' is the Jewish New Year of the Trees. Originally a legal date in the Mishnah for calculating the age of trees for tithing purposes, it evolved into a celebration of nature, the Land of Israel, and humanity's relationship with the natural world. It is one of four 'new years' mentioned in the Talmud.

What do you eat on Tu B'Shvat?

The traditional foods of Tu B'Shvat center on fruits, especially the Seven Species of the Land of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates. Dried fruits, nuts, carob, and new or exotic fruits are also popular. Many communities hold a Tu B'Shvat Seder featuring fruits, wine, and Torah study.

What is a Tu B'Shvat Seder?

The Tu B'Shvat Seder is a ritual meal developed by the Kabbalists of Safed in the 16th century. Modeled loosely on the Passover Seder, it involves drinking four cups of wine (progressing from white to red to symbolize the changing seasons), eating fruits in a specific order (fruits with inedible shells, fruits with pits, and fully edible fruits), and studying mystical texts about trees and creation.

Is Tu B'Shvat a day off from work?

No. Tu B'Shvat is a minor holiday and work is fully permitted. There are no restrictions on labor, travel, or daily activities. Schools and communities may hold special programs, tree-planting ceremonies, or Seders, but it is not a day of rest in the way that Shabbat or major holidays are.

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