Observing Passover in Birmingham: What You Need to Know

It’s almost time to break out the matzo. Passover arrives on Monday, March 25 this year, when Jews across the world will come together to retell the Exodus story over four cups of wine (or grape juice for those who can't indulge), and of course, a large, festive feast.

What is Passover, anyway?

Passover Traditions

As the story goes, during their flight from slavery, the Jews did not have enough time for their dough to rise, resulting in a flaky cracker that is eaten instead of bread for a full week during Passover. The diet changes go beyond bread, however, and depend on family tradition. As a general rule, just look for the “Kosher for Passover” label, which thankfully spreads to more products year after year.

Prior to the holiday, Jews clean their homes and get rid of chametz — food that is forbidden during Passover. The day before, this year on March 24, kids have the chance to search their homes by candlelight for any pieces of chametz left behind. The Birmingham-Bloomfield Chai Center reminds residents:

• Search the home for chametz starting at 8:23 p.m. Sunday, March 24
• Finish eating chametz by 11:34 a.m. Monday, March 25
• Burn chametz by 12:36 p.m. Monday, March 25

The Seder

On the first two nights of Passover, a Seder is held. This is when the story of Passover is told with the reading of the Haggadah. Some families even dress up and act out the story. Songs are sung, including "Dayenu," and as tradition, children sing the Four Questions, or Ma Nishtana. Over the course of the night, four cups of wine are consumed to celebrate freedom. Bitter herbs are also eaten as a reminder of the pain of the Jewish slaves.

The middle of the holiday, from March 28 to 31, is an intermediate period, or Chol HaMoed, when there are fewer restrictions. On these days more observant Jews are allowed to drive and use electronics, and in rare instances, work. The final two days of Passover fall on April 1 and 2, and are considered Holy Days.

Celebrating in Birmingham

Birmingham Bloomfield Chai Center

The Birmingham Bloomfield Chai Center, which worships at the Masconic Lodge at 37357 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, will be hosting several Passover services, including:

First Days Services

• Evenings: 7:35 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, March 25-27
• Mornings: 10 a.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, March 26-27

Chol Hamoed Services

• 7:15 a.m. Thursday-Friday, March 28-29
• 7:40 p.m. Thursday-Friday, March 28-29

The Chai Center will also host two family-style Seders next week at the home of Rabbi Boruch Cohen. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children.

• First Seder: 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 25
• Second Seder: 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 26

Temple Beth El

Temple Beth El, in Bloomfield Hills, meanwhile, will also be holding several Passover events, including:

• Passover Tot Shabbat: 9:30 a.m. Saturday
• First Seder: Monday
• Beth El Family Seder: 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 26

Do you know of any more Passover events happening in the Birmingham area? Make sure to add them to our Event Calendar.

What kind of Passover traditions does your family have?