Sukkot: Celebrate the Festival of Booths

What is Sukkot?

Sukkot is one of the most joyful festivals in the Jewish calendar. The name comes from the Hebrew word "sukkah," which means a temporary booth or hut. During Sukkot, Jewish families build and decorate these special structures to remember an important time in history when the Jewish people wandered in the desert for 40 years after leaving Egypt.

When is Sukkot Celebrated?

Sukkot takes place in autumn, usually in September or October, depending on the Hebrew calendar. The festival lasts for seven days, and it's one of the three pilgrimage festivals mentioned in the Torah. Many Jewish communities also celebrate an eighth day called Shemini Atzeret.

Where Did Sukkot Come From?

Sukkot has roots stretching back thousands of years to ancient Israel. It originally marked the end of the harvest season, when farmers would gather their crops. Over time, it became a way to remember the Exodus from Egypt and the 40 years the Jewish people spent in the wilderness. During those years, they lived in temporary shelters as they journeyed towards the Promised Land.

Why Do Jewish Families Celebrate Sukkot?

Sukkot celebrates freedom, gratitude, and trust. By building and living in a sukkah, families remember their ancestors' journey and show appreciation for the harvest and nature's bounty. It's also a time to reflect on how we depend on each other and on the natural world around us. The festival teaches children about resilience, community, and giving thanks.

How is Sukkot Celebrated?

The heart of Sukkot is building a sukkah. Families construct these temporary shelters using branches, bamboo, or wooden frames, then decorate them with colourful paper chains, drawings, and harvest decorations like pumpkins and corn. The roof is covered with branches or palm fronds so you can see the stars through the gaps—a reminder of sleeping under the open sky.

During the festival, families eat meals inside the sukkah, share stories, and spend time together. Many communities hold Sukkot parties with games, crafts, and special foods. Another important part of Sukkot involves the "Four Species"—a palm branch, willow branches, myrtle branches, and a citron fruit—which are held together and blessed during prayers.

Kids love decorating the sukkah with drawings, hanging fruit, and creating a cosy space. Some families invite friends and neighbours to join their Sukkot meals, making it a wonderful time for community and celebration.

Fun Facts About Sukkot for Kids

Did you know that building a sukkah is like creating your own temporary home? It's a hands-on way to learn history and have fun at the same time. Many families turn sukkah-building into a creative project, and some even sleep in their sukkah under the stars. Sukkot reminds us that the simplest things—shelter, food, and time with loved ones—are the most precious.