DMV High Holiday Guide 2025 / 5786

Updated 11:56 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2nd

Dear DMV friends,

Welcome to GatherDC’s 2025 / 5786 DMV High Holiday Guide, a one-stop-shop for everything you need to usher in the new year. There are dozens of amazing DMV Jewish organizations putting together incredible High Holiday experiences — but there’s only one place to find them all together, and that’s right here.

This year, we approach the High Holidays carrying all manners of (seemingly) contradictory emotions: the joy of coming together, mixed with the pain of a difficult year. Jewish tradition, though, is prepared for such duality. We are reminded that there is a season for everything. Growth turns to death turns to decay, which provides the nutrients foundational to new growth. The harvest sets the stage for soil to lay fallow, before it is prepared for the planting to come. During the High Holidays, we turn the soil of our souls, bringing that which may be buried to light — and deciding what we want to grow in the new year.

We hope this guide can be a useful tool as you craft the just-right-for-you combination of recipes, readings, services, classes, social gatherings, and much, much more that will make this High Holiday season deeply meaningful. When you see us out and about in the next couple months, say hello! We can’t wait for the next chance to gather with you.

Chag Sameach – Wishing you a good, sweet New Year,

The GatherDC Team

PS: Not sure where to start? Check out the table of contents in the drop down menu at the top of the screen! And, if we’re missing something, please let us know by submitting your event to our online calendar or by emailing us. We’ll be updating the guide just about every day, so check back early and often!

What's in the Guide?

Getting Ready for the High Holidays

Rosh Hashanah

Yom Kippur

Sukkot

Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah

Eating Around the DMV

Readings and Other Resources

Getting Ready for the High Holidays!

Tuesday, August 19th

• 6:00 p.m. — CommuniTuesday with Hill Havurah
  • “We’ll blend bullet journaling with the traditional practice of Chesbon Hanefesh – an ‘account of the soul’ – to help you reflect on your year emotionally, ethically, spiritually and personally.”

Saturday, August 23rd

• 7:00 p.m. — Havdallah & Rosh Chodesh Elul with Am Kolel
  • “What does it mean to prepare? Themes of the High Holidays.”

Sunday, August 24th

• 11:00 a.m. — Soulful Stillness: Elul in Nature with 2239
  • “Join Rabbi Eliana Fischel and our 2239 community for a moment of stillness and reflection in preparation for the High Holidays.”
• 3:30 p.m. — Singing into Elul with Batya Levine with New Synagogue Project
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join Batya Levine for a hybrid event on Sunday, August 24 from 3:30-5:00pm as we sing our way into the new month, with melodies to open us towards reflection, and begin to learn some of the tunes we’ll sing throughout the High Holidays this year.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Elul Letter Writing with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “We will take time to reflect and to write letters and send cards to whom we choose.”

Tuesday, August 26th

• 6:00 a.m. — Selichot with Magen David Sephardic Congregation
  • “Selichot will begin on August 26th, with services starting at 6:00 AM. Join us every weekday morning at 6:00 AM and on Sundays at 7:00 AM.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Make Your Mark: Art and Reflection for the New Year with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “How have you grown this year? What do you want to let go of? What do you hope for in the next year? Prepare for the Jewish New Year with this hands-on art workshop designed for personal reflection and renewal.”

Tuesday, September 2nd

• 7:00 p.m. — Make Your Mark: Art and Reflection for the New Year with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “How have you grown this year? What do you want to let go of? What do you hope for in the next year? Prepare for the Jewish New Year with this hands-on art workshop designed for personal reflection and renewal.”

Wednesday, September 3rd

• 6:45 p.m. — DC New Moon Circle: Elul with At the Well and Adas Israel Congregation
  • “We seek spiritual alignment as we take stock of the past year and ask ourselves how we want to show up to meet the new one.”

Thursday, September 4th

• 6:00 p.m. — Peer-Led Pre-High Holiday Retreat with Asella Medina-Smith and Mem Global’s Retreatology
  • Fill out interest form by August 19th
  • “This retreat is a chance to prepare spiritually, emotionally, and communally for 5786 while also exploring the why of our most important holidays.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Entering the Narrow Space with Am Kolel
  • “Who is the God of the High Holidays? Who have I been and who do I want to be?”
• 7:00 p.m. — Unprepared Together: A High Holiday Reading Series for Ages 35-50 with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “Using Rabbi Alan Lew’s acclaimed book This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared, we explore the spiritual practices, rituals, and emotional challenges of the fall Jewish holidays.”

Saturday, September 6th

• 1:00 p.m. — Elul Tisch with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Enter the High Holy Days uplifted, challenged, and ready for the growth mindset the season offers us.”

Sunday, September 7th

• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • “We’ll be guided on our hikes by our very own “hike captains” (nature lovin’ folks from the Den), followed by learning and discussion to get us warmed up for the High Holy Day season.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rabbi Dalia Marx: “The Cycle of Forgiveness” with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “Join us for an illuminating presentation by renowned scholar Rabbi Dr. Dalia Marx, as we explore how this day of atonement grew into the most powerful and widely observed of all Jewish holy days.”

Monday, September 8th

• 8:00 p.m. — Class on Yonah with Yoetzet Rachel Cohen with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Yoetzet Rachel Cohen is teaching a class on Yonah on Monday evenings”

Tuesday, September 9th

• 7:00 p.m. — Make Your Mark: Art and Reflection for the New Year with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “How have you grown this year? What do you want to let go of? What do you hope for in the next year? Prepare for the Jewish New Year with this hands-on art workshop designed for personal reflection and renewal.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Supporting the Soul Workshop 1 with the New Synagogue Project
  • “Workshop One will dive into resources to explore the sacred tasks of caring for mourners and end-of-life journeys. The workshop focuses on practical information while giving opportunities to share experiences and feelings of grief in a supportive and safe environment.”

Wednesday, September 10th

• 11:59 p.m. — Application deadline for Some Assembly Required: DIY Rituals for the High Holidays with GatherDC
  • “Over three weeknight sessions, we’ll explore the idea of Jewish ritual with a special focus on the rituals specific to Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. We’ll explore if and how these rituals can meet us in this moment—and how we might adapt and reimagine them in ways that feel personal, meaningful, and resonant to us.”

Thursday, September 11th

• 6:30 p.m. — Challah Bake with Am Kolel
  • “Come learn how to braid a round challah as we prepare for Rosh HaShanah!”
• 7:00 p.m. — Unprepared Together: A High Holiday Reading Series for Ages 35-50 with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “Using Rabbi Alan Lew’s acclaimed book This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared, we explore the spiritual practices, rituals, and emotional challenges of the fall Jewish holidays.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Pizza, Parsha, Prep Take 3 with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “Join us for Parsha, Pizza, and Prep at Moishe House Columbia Heights, where we’ll dive into the weekly Torah portion over pizza and great conversation.”

Friday, September 12th

• 7:30 p.m. — Honey Shabbat with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “We’ll enjoy a cozy evening filled with honey-inspired dishes, good vibes, and plenty of time to connect with friends old and new. Come hungry, bring your sweetness, and help us welcome the New Year in the most delicious way possible.”

Saturday, September 13th

• 1:00 p.m. — Elul Tisch with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Enter the High Holy Days uplifted, challenged, and ready for the growth mindset the season offers us.”
• 3:00 p.m. — Challah Off with Moishe House Arlington, Challah Back Girls, Moishe House Bethesda, and Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “Join us for a Challah-Off! Come to try challah and rank challah baked by Renée Bakes at MoHo Arlington, the Challah Back Girls, Moho Bethesda, Bubbe’s Lil Chefs and Moho CoHi.”
• 6:00 p.m. — S’lichot Service & Edlavitch Hall Rededication with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Kick off the High Holy Days season with our annual S’lichot service. This year is extra special, as we have been working tirelessly to update and refresh Edlavitch Hall, and tonight we give it an official rededication.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Selichot with Lloyd Wolf, A Joyful Noise: Klezmer in Motion! with Kol Ami
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to usher in the High Holiday season with our Selichot gathering—a meaningful evening of connection, prayer, and inspiration.”
• 7:00 p.m. — S’lichot: Gateway to the High Holy Days with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join us for a shabbat program on forgiveness preceding the S’lichot service, and get in the mood for the High Holy Days.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Havdalah and Selichot Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Join Rabbi Hannah and the Havurah Ensemble for a musical, reflective Havdalah and Selichot service. We’ll re-enter the High Holiday season through melody, dressing the Torah, and thinking through our past year.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Selichot: Havdalah + Singing Circle with the Den Collective
  • “Everyone is invited to join us for this in-person Selichot Service experience, complete with havdalah marking the end of Shabbat and soulful singing with members of our Den Music Team.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Selichot: Night of Return with Temple Micah
  • “Join us for a contemplative evening as we officially begin the High Holy Day season. This is a great opportunity to prepare for the new year.”
• 8:30 p.m. — Selichot Program & Service with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Exploring Themes of the High Holidays Through a Reading of Pharsalia, or, For Crying out Loud”

Sunday, September 14th

• 12:00 a.m. — First Selichot Night Service with Jewish ROC
• 9:00 a.m. — The Elul Experience with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Join us for a transformative experience dedicated to the Hebrew month of Elul, a sacred time of personal reflection, renewal, and spiritual preparation for the High Holidays.”
• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • “We’ll be guided on our hikes by our very own “hike captains” (nature lovin’ folks from the Den), followed by learning and discussion to get us warmed up for the High Holy Day season.”

Monday, September 15th

• 8:00 p.m. — Class on Yonah with Yoetzet Rachel Cohen with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Yoetzet Rachel Cohen is teaching a class on Yonah on Monday evenings”

Tuesday, September 16th

• 7:00 p.m. — New Year, New Game Night with Moishe House Arlington
  • “Join us for our monthly classic with plenty of board games”
• 7:00 p.m. — Supporting the Soul Workshop 2 with the New Synagogue Project
  • “Workshop Two will utilize the healing and creative process of Huichol yarn art, accessible to all skill levels, to process grief in a nonverbal way. There will also be small group conversations on mourning and healing as people work.”

Wednesday, September 17th

• 6:30 p.m. — Rosh Hashana Challah Bake + Learn with the Den Collective
  • Register by September 12th
  • “Join us for an intimate evening of deep connection, sweet challah baking, and exploration of Jewish teachings!”
• 7:00 p.m. — Make Your Mark: Art and Reflection for the New Year with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “How have you grown this year? What do you want to let go of? What do you hope for in the next year? Prepare for the Jewish New Year with this hands-on art workshop designed for personal reflection and renewal.”
• 7:00 p.m. — The Gates Swing Open: A Rosh Hashanah Community Discussion with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Our discussion this year will focus on Rosh Hashanah and follows past discussions on the Ten Days of Teshuvah and Sukkot.”
• 7:00 p.m. — What It Takes: Making the High Holidays Meaningful with Sixth & I
  • Register by 5:00 p.m. on September 16th
  • “With Rabbi Jenna, learn about the major themes of the High Holidays and reflect on them through a guided art exercise.”

Thursday, September 18th

• 1:00 p.m. — From Reflection to Renewal: Torah of SRE High Holiday Learning Session with SRE
  • “Together, we’ll explore the values at the heart of SRE’s work – justice, equity, humility, and loving-kindness”
• 7:00 p.m. — Unprepared Together: A High Holiday Reading Series for Ages 35-50 with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “Using Rabbi Alan Lew’s acclaimed book This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared, we explore the spiritual practices, rituals, and emotional challenges of the fall Jewish holidays.”

Saturday, September 20th

• 10:00 a.m. — Pre Rosh Hashanah Pop-Up in the Park with Hill Havurah
  • “Come sing, hear the shofar, do holiday crafts, and eat apples and honey with Rabbi Hannah and Laurie Solnik!”
• 1:00 p.m. — Elul Tisch with Adas Israel Congregation
  • “Enter the High Holy Days uplifted, challenged, and ready for the growth mindset the season offers us.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Selichot with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Our 3rd session will be a Selichot service, traditionally observed the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah. That evening we will air our collective concerns and offer confessional prayers as a community.”

Sunday, September 21st

• 10:00 a.m. — Community Memorial Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
• 10:00 a.m. — HiHo Hike + Learn: Adventures in Nature with the Den Collective
  • “We’ll be guided on our hikes by our very own “hike captains” (nature lovin’ folks from the Den), followed by learning and discussion to get us warmed up for the High Holy Day season.”

Wednesday, September 24th

• 7:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Paint and Sip with Moishe House Arlington
  • “Unwind with a Rosh Hashanah-themed paint-by-numbers night filled with 🍎 light bites, 🍯 sweet intentions, and 🎶 good vibes for the New Year.”

Thursday, September 25th

• 7:00 p.m. — Unprepared Together: A High Holiday Reading Series for Ages 35-50 with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “Using Rabbi Alan Lew’s acclaimed book This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared, we explore the spiritual practices, rituals, and emotional challenges of the fall Jewish holidays.”

Monday, September 29th

• 8:00 p.m. — Class on Yonah with Yoetzet Rachel Cohen with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Yoetzet Rachel Cohen is teaching a class on Yonah on Monday evenings”

Rosh Hashanah

Monday, September 22nd

• 6:00 a.m. — Selichot Followed by Shacharit & Hatarat Nedarim with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 7:30 a.m. — Morning Service with JewishROC
• 4:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah at Pearlstone with Hadar’s Rising Song Institute & Adamah
  • Ends at 11:00 a.m. on September 25th
  • “This Rosh Hashanah, gather with family and friends at Pearlstone outside Baltimore for a transformative musical New Year experience.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Welcome the New Year with Rabbi Hannah, Student Rabbi Lev, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble. Sermon given by Student Rabbi Lev.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Kaleidoscope Erev Rosh Hashanah Dinner with the New Synagogue Project
  • “NSP’s annual Rosh Hashanah seder for people of color and Sephardi / Mizrahi Jews along with our loved ones.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashana Services with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join TI for our beautiful traditional egalitarian services, led by Rabbi Michael Werbow, along with expert lay leaders.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Community Sunset Service with Adas Israel Congregation
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Interfaith Families Project
  • “Join the Interfaith Families Project (IFFP) for our warm, inclusive High Holy Days services—created especially with interfaith families in mind.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Yom Tov Dinner with JewishROC
  • “New Year mini-Seder, registration required”
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “for all members, non-members, and community”
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashana with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Rosh Hashanah with Temple Micah
  • Register by September 15th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “At Temple Micah’s High Holy Days, we gather in a hopeful, inclusive community, open to all who seek meaning, connection, and renewal.”
• 8:00 p.m. — 2239 Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Rosh Hashanah Evening Service with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”

Tuesday, September 23rd

• 8:45 a.m. — Morning Services with Minyan Segulah
  • Register by September 1st
  • “Vegetarian potluck meal following services”
• 8:45 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day One with Kol Shalom
  • Register by August 31st
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join Conservative Congregation Kol Shalom for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services in-person or online.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashana Day 1 Services with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join TI for our beautiful traditional egalitarian services, led by Rabbi Michael Werbow, along with expert lay leaders.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Fabrangen cordially invites you, your family, and friends to join us for our 2025/5786 Rosh Hashanah services. Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom.”
• 9:15 a.m. — Torah Services with Adas Israel Congregation
• 9:30 a.m. — Main Morning Service with the New Synagogue Project
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Observe the New Year with soulful song, heartfelt prayer, learning, and study! Following the service, join us for a community-wide kiddush with apples and honey.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Morning Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Welcome the New Year with Rabbi Hannah, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble. Sermon given by Rabbi Hannah.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Service with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”
• 9:45 a.m. — Morning Service with Chabad of Potomac
  • “Rabbi’s talk begins at approximately 10:00”
• 10:00 a.m. — Meaningful and Inclusive High Holiday Experience with Kol Ami
  • Register by 12:00 p.m. on September 22nd
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Together, we lift one another up, share the weight of the world, and find strength in community.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashana Day 1 Morning Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah with Rabbi Esther with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Sanctuary Service with Temple Micah
  • Register by September 15th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “At Temple Micah’s High Holy Days, we gather in a hopeful, inclusive community, open to all who seek meaning, connection, and renewal.”
• 11:30 a.m. — Shofar Service with JewishROC
• 4:30 p.m. — Tashlich Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “Fabrangen invites you to join us for a festive Tashlich with potluck, live music and perhaps even dancing as we cast away our sins of the past year at Glen Echo Park.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Community Tashlich with Adas Israel Congregation
• 5:00 p.m. — Tashlich, BYO Picnic, and Mincha with Tifereth Israel Congregation
• 5:00 p.m. — Tashlich with Hill Havurah
  • “Sing, reflect, and symbolically let go of the past year at the Anacostia River with Rabbi Hannah and Michael Allen.”
• 5:30 p.m. — Express Rosh Hashanah with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 5:45 p.m. — Tashlich with Kesher Israel Congregation
  • “Georgetown waterfront at the sundial on 30th”
• 7:40 p.m. — Yom Tov Dinner with JewishROC
  • “New Year mini-Seder, registration required”

Wednesday, September 24th

• 8:45 a.m. — Morning Services with Minyan Segulah
  • Register by September 1st
  • “Catered vegetarian and kosher certified lunch following services”
• 8:45 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Day Two with Kol Shalom
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join Conservative Congregation Kol Shalom for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services in-person or online.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashana Day 2 Services with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join TI for our beautiful traditional egalitarian services, led by Rabbi Michael Werbow, along with expert lay leaders.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashanah Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Fabrangen cordially invites you, your family, and friends to join us for our 2025/5786 Rosh Hashanah services. Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom.”
• 9:15 a.m. — Torah Services and Communal Shofar with Adas Israel Congregation
• 9:45 a.m. — Morning Service with Chabad of Potomac
  • “Rabbi’s talk begins at approximately 10:00”
• 10:00 a.m. — 2nd Day of Rosh Hashanah Services with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Rosh Hashana Day 2 Morning Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”

Thursday, September 25th

• 6:00 p.m. — NoVA Tashlich with GatherDC and Rodef 2100

Friday, September 26th

• 7:30 p.m. — Sweet New Year Shabbat with Moishe House Arlington
  • “Finish off your Rosh Hoshana celebration with a Shabbat dinner that will put candyland🍭🍬🍭 to shame.”
• 7:40 p.m. — Shabbat Dinner with JewishROC
  • “Shabbat Shuva, the most important Shabbat of the year for its place between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur signifies the ultimate task of teshuva as we near the final days of awe culminating with Yom Kippur.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Shabbat Shuva with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Shabbat Shuva is the shabbat between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, known as the ‘shabbat of return.'”

Saturday, September 27th

• 9:00 a.m. — Reverse Tashlich and Lunch with Moishe House Columbia Heights
  • “Kick off the Jewish New Year with Moishe House CoHi and the Potomac River Conservancy at our Reverse Tashlich at Gravelly Point Park in VA!”
• 11:00 a.m. — Kaleidoscope and Queer Space Families Picnic with the New Synagogue Project
  • “Gather in community with other Jews of color, Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews, and/or queer folks and our loved ones. Enjoy the holiday with a festive outdoor meal (seudah) together!”

Sunday, September 28th

• 10:00 a.m. — Tashlich Service and Picnic with Temple Micah
  • “The Tashlich ceremony offers us a chance to symbolically cast our wrongdoings of the previous year into the water and begin the new year with a fresh start. Following the service, we will gather for a family-friendly picnic in the park.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Kayaking Tashlich on the Potomac River with the Den Collective
  • “Join the Den for our annual Kayaking Tashlich experience on the Potomac River.”
• 3:00 p.m. — DC Tashlich with GatherDC and Sixth & I
• 4:00 p.m. — Tashlich (Casting on the Water) Ritual with the New Synagogue Project
  • “Come together in the reflective ritual of letting go of the burdens of the previous year.”

Yom Kippur

Wednesday, October 1st

• 7:30 a.m. — Morning Service with JewishROC
• 6:00 p.m. — Last Bite with Rodef 2100
  • “Join Rodef 2100 for an informal ‘last bite’ before Kol Nidre services.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Mincha and Kol Nidre with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join TI for our beautiful traditional egalitarian services, led by Rabbi Michael Werbow, along with expert lay leaders.”
• 6:15 p.m. — Evening Services with Minyan Segulah
  • Register by September 1st
• 6:15 p.m. — Kol Nidre Service with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre and Maariv Services – Erev Yom Kippur 2025/5786 with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Fabrangen cordially invites you, your family, and friends to join us for our 2025/5786 Yom Kippur services. Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom as well.”
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Adas Israel Congregation
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Chabad of Potomac
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Kesher Israel Congregation
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidrei with Rosh Pina
• 6:30 p.m. — Kol Nidre (Yom Kippur Evening) Service with the New Synagogue Project
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We will hold space together to welcome the Day of Atonement, beginning with the renunciation of vows, Kol Nidre, and continuing with spirited song and prayer.”
• 6:45 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Kol Ami
  • Register by 12:00 p.m. on September 22nd
  • “Experience the Reconstructionist difference—our High Holiday services are meaningful and musical, inclusive and participatory, with something for everyone.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Move into the Day of Atonement with Rabbi Hannah, Student Rabbi Lev, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble. Sermon given by Rabbi Hannah.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Interfaith Families Project
  • “Join the Interfaith Families Project (IFFP) for our warm, inclusive High Holy Days services—created especially with interfaith families in mind.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 7:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Rabbi Esther with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 7:15 p.m. — Outdoor Soulful Kol Nidre with Adas Israel Congregation
• 8:00 p.m. — Erev Yom Kippur Service with Temple Rodef Shalom
  • “geared for adults but open to all members, non-members and community”
• 8:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with Temple Micah
  • Register by September 15th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “At Temple Micah’s High Holy Days, we gather in a hopeful, inclusive community, open to all who seek meaning, connection, and renewal.”
• 8:00 p.m. — Kol Nidre with 2239 and Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • “Join 2239 for Kol Nidre, the beautiful and solemn service that opens Yom Kippur. Together, we’ll gather in community, reflect on the past year, and enter the holiest day with prayer and renewal.”

Thursday, October 2nd

• 9:00 a.m. — Morning Services with Minyan Segulah
  • Register by September 1st
• 9:00 a.m. — Morning Services with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join TI for our beautiful traditional egalitarian services, led by Rabbi Michael Werbow, along with expert lay leaders.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Shacharit with Rosh Pina
• 9:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Services – 2025/5786 with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Fabrangen cordially invites you, your family, and friends to join us for our 2025/5786 Yom Kippur services. Services will be in-person and live-streamed via Zoom.”
• 9:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur with Kol Shalom
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join Conservative Congregation Kol Shalom for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services in-person or online.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Main Morning Service with the New Synagogue Project
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Join NSP on Yom Kippur morning to read the Torah, sing and reflect, wrestle with the old year, and embrace the renewal of the new year.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Service with Hill Havurah
  • “Observe the Day of Atonement with Rabbi Hannah, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble. Sermon given by Hill Havurah member Joanna Kreiselman.”
• 9:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur Service with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Day with Kol Ami
  • Register by 12:00 p.m. on September 22nd
  • “Experience the Reconstructionist difference—our High Holiday services are meaningful and musical, inclusive and participatory, with something for everyone.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Alt YK Morning Experience with GatherDC
  • “This will include small group discussions over Jewish texts, outside-the-box approaches to traditional High Holiday rituals, activities for personal introspection, live Jewish and secular folk music, and thematic storytelling by Rabbi Amalia.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur Morning with Interfaith Families Project
  • “Join the Interfaith Families Project (IFFP) for our warm, inclusive High Holy Days services—created especially with interfaith families in mind.”
• 10:00 a.m. — Yom Kippur with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Intergenerational Service with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We invite you to join us for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur worship opportunities at Temple, the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC), or online.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Morning Service and Yizkor with Chabad of Potomac
• 10:30 a.m. — Sanctuary Service with Temple Micah
  • Register by September 15th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “At Temple Micah’s High Holy Days, we gather in a hopeful, inclusive community, open to all who seek meaning, connection, and renewal.”
• 10:30 a.m. — Torah Service and Yizkor with Adas Israel Congregation
• 10:30 a.m. — Yom Kippur with Rabbi Esther with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 12:30 p.m. — Lunchtime Community Gathering [for those who cannot fast] with GatherDC
  • “This will be a space for those who find it meaningful and helpful to be with other people who also do not fast and engage in a Jewish conversation about what it means to honor the act of tending to one’s body and spirit on this holy day.”
• 12:30 p.m. — Martyrology/Yizkor Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 12:45 p.m. — Afternoon Learning: Book of Jonah Experience with Hill Havurah
  • “Join Student Rabbi Lev for some learning in the middle of Yom Kippur. We’ll explore the Book of Jonah and reflect as a group.”
• 12:45 p.m. — Yom Kippur Meditation with Hill Havurah
  • “Join Rabbi Hannah for some mindfulness in the middle of Yom Kippur. We’ll take time for guided meditation, silence, and sharing in an effort to support our teshuvah, our return to our best selves.”
• 1:15 p.m. — Yom Kippur Afternoon Services with Temple Micah
  • Register by September 15th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “At Temple Micah’s High Holy Days, we gather in a hopeful, inclusive community, open to all who seek meaning, connection, and renewal.”
• 2:00 p.m. — Yom Kippur Afternoon Learning Workshops with the New Synagogue Project
  • “During the afternoon of Yom Kippur, NSP members will lead workshops and spaces for learning, reflection, and rest.”
• 3:30 p.m. — Yom Kippur Class: The Book of Yona with JewishROC
  • “The Journey of the Soul, according to the Gra’s commentary”
• 3:45 p.m. — Afternoon Discussion with Adas Israel Congregation
• 4:00 p.m. — Afternoon, Yizkor & N’ilah followed by Community Break Fast with Washington Hebrew Congregation
  • Register by September 26th
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “When the N’ilah service concludes and the Yom Kippur holiday ends, our break fast buffet opens! Purchase your tickets and break the fast with us.”
• 4:20 p.m. — Afternoon Services with Minyan Segulah
  • Register by September 1st
• 5:00 p.m. — Mincha/N’ila/Havdala Service with Bet Mishpachah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “As a congregation for gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual, trans and queer Jews, our families, friends and allies, and all who wish to participate in an inclusive, progressive, egalitarian, and mutually supportive community, we welcome all who wish to celebrate with us.”
• 5:00 p.m. — Mincha with Rosh Pina
• 5:30 p.m. — Neilah with Adas Israel Congregation
• 5:30 p.m. — Yizkor and Ne’ilah with Hill Havurah
  • “Join Rabbi Hannah, Student Rabbi Lev, Michael Allen, and the Havurah Ensemble to lift up the memories of our loved ones with Yizkor at 5:30, followed by Ne’ilah, our final service of Yom Kippur, at 6:00. Sermon given by Student Rabbi Lev.”
• 5:30 p.m. — Yom Kippur Evening Service & Break Fast with Am Kolel
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “Am Kolel welcomes your participation in services this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur led by Rabbi David Shneyer, a singer and guitarist.”
• 6:00 p.m. — Neilah with Rabbi Aaron with Sixth & I
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “What we can control, if we take our spiritual work seriously, is how we react and respond to the unexpected. The more we remind ourselves that there will be detours ahead, the more prepared we’ll be to navigate them.”
• 6:10 p.m. — Ne’ilah (Closing) Service with the New Synagogue Project
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “NSP will gather for a final time to sing supplications, pass the Torah from hand to hand, and pray the special and unique fifth prayer of the Yom Kippur day.”
• 6:15 p.m. — Neilah with Kol Ami
  • Register by 12:00 p.m. on September 22nd
  • “Experience the Reconstructionist difference—our High Holiday services are meaningful and musical, inclusive and participatory, with something for everyone.”
• 6:15 p.m. — Neilah with Rosh Pina
• 7:00 p.m. — Break-the-Fast with GatherDC
  • “End Yom Kippur with bagels and community! We will provide bagels, schmear, drinks, and friendly faces.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Break Fast with Kol Ami
  • Register by 12:00 p.m. on September 22nd
  • “Experience the Reconstructionist difference—our High Holiday services are meaningful and musical, inclusive and participatory, with something for everyone.”
• 7:30 p.m. — Break-fast with the New Synagogue Project
  • “After sundown, we will nosh on a spread of food and bask in the denouement of the holidays.”
• 7:35 p.m. — Yom Kippur Break Fast with Tifereth Israel Congregation
  • “Break your fast with a delicious dairy meal right after services!”

Sukkot

Sunday, October 5th

• 10:00 a.m. — Build & Decorate the Fabrangen Sukkah with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “No building experience needed. Beginners are welcome! Coffee, juice, lox & bagels, fruit, and snacks will be provided.”

Monday, October 6th

• 6:30 p.m. — Erev Sukkot: Kabbalat Chag Service & Potluck in the Sukkah with Fabrangen Havurah
  • “Join us for an Erev Sukkot Kabbalat Chag service and potluck dinner on Monday, October 6, 2025 in the Fabrangen Sukkah.”

Tuesday, October 7th

• 10:00 a.m. — 1st Day Sukkot Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We look forward to having you join Fabrangen’s First Day Sukkot Services in person or on-line.”

Wednesday, October 8th

• 6:30 p.m. — Celebrate Sukkot for Jews of Color and their Families with the Edlavitch DCJCC
  • “Come celebrate and build community with other Jews of Color and their families this Sukkot! We’ll enjoy dinner in the sukkah, learning with Ammud, crafts, and more.”

Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah

Tuesday, October 14th

• 10:00 a.m. — Shemini Atzeret Services with Fabrangen Havurah
  • Virtual attendance available
  • “We look forward to having you join our Shemini Atzeret services in person or on-line, as we come to the end of Sukkot.”

Food for the High Holidays

Eating Around the DMV

District of Columbia

• Baked by Yael
  • Challah, bagels, and other baked goods
• Bread Furst
  • Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur menus coming soon!
• Call Your Mother
  • High Holiday catering orders available August 25th
• Challah Back Girls
  • Specialty challah available for delivery across the DMV
• Honey from the Heart with Washington Hebrew Congregation
• Sababa
  • Includes specialty Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur menus
• Sunflower Bakery
  • Rosh Hashanah pre-order deadline is 12:00 p.m. on September 16th
  • Place orders two days in advance of pickup
  • Orders available for pickup or delivery
• Tatte
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available in stores beginning September 17th

Maryland

• Call Your Mother
  • High Holiday catering orders available August 25th
• Mon Ami Gabi
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available for dine-in or pickup on September 22nd and September 23rd
• Signature Caterers
  • Pickup in Silver Spring or delivery within a 10-mile radius
  • Order for Rosh Hashanah by September 12
• Sunflower Bakery
  • Rosh Hashanah pre-order deadline is 12:00 p.m. on September 16th
  • Place orders two days in advance of pickup
  • Orders available for pickup or delivery
• Tatte
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available in stores beginning September 17th

NoVA

• Call Your Mother
  • High Holiday catering orders available August 25th
• Tatte
  • Rosh Hashanah menu available in stores beginning September 17th

Other Readings and Resources

• A First-Timer’s Guide to Hosting Rosh Hashanah Dinner by Sonya Sanford at Hey Alma
• Alt YK 2024 Spotify Playlist from GatherDC
• Celebrating the High Holy Days From Home from Exploring Judaism
• Elul Challenge: Torah Study for Your Soul from Project Zug
• Elul Project 5785: A Journey by Moonlight from Temple Micah
• High Holiday Grief and Yizkor from Recustom
• High Holiday Rituals and Guidebooks from Recustom
• High Holidays Rituals from Ritualwell
• High Holy Day Blessings + Ritual Guide from the Den Collective
• High Holy Days Resource List from Jews of Color Initiative
• High Holy Days Sermons from Temple Rodef Shalom
• How To Lead A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Seder from My Jewish Learning
• Must-Know Rosh Hashanah Words and Phrases from My Jewish Learning
• Non-Ritual Ways to Prepare in Elul from Exploring Judaism
• Prayers and Rituals for those Who Need to Eat on Yom Kippur from A Mitzvah to Eat
• Prayers for Peace from Recustom
• Requesting Time Off for the High Holidays Helped Me Define My Jewishness by Abi Winer at Hey Alma
• Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Readings and Rituals from American Jewish World Service
• Rosh Hashanah Guide from 18 Doors
• Rosh HaShanah Haggadah from Schusterman Family Philanthropies
  • Includes English, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew translations
• Simchat Torah Guide from Jewtina
• Six Ways to Celebrate Rosh Hashana with Your Friends by Vanessa Pamela Friedman at Hey Alma
• Sorry, Not Sorry: The Real Path to an Apology by Hanna Perlberger from At the Well
• Sukkot Guide from Jewtina
• Sukkot Resources from HIAS
• Support Packages from A Mitzvah to Eat
• The Art of Dwelling: Creative Prompts for Sukkot by Jewish Studio Project
• The Joys of a Mizrahi Rosh Hashanah Seder by Donna Maher at Hey Alma
• The Mystical Resonance of the Shofar by Nili Salem from At the Well
• The Power of Words: A Talmudic Exploration for Elul from Project Zug
• The Rosh Hashanah Seder: Latinx Edition from Jewtina
• The 18 Best Jewish High Holiday Movies and TV Episodes by Evelyn Frick at Hey Alma
• Wash My Soul Tashlich Ceremony from Recustom
• What to Read to Prepare for the High Holidays this Year from Exploring Judaism
• Yom Kippur Guidebook from BINA: The Jewish Movement for Social Change
• Yom Kippur Workbook from Jewtina
• 9 Things You Didn’t Know About Rosh Hashanah from My Jewish Learning
• 10 Things the Shofar Symbolizes from My Jewish Learning
• 10Q
  • “10Q emails you a question a day for 10 days. Afterwards, you send your answers to the secure online vault. One year later, your answers are unlocked and returned and the process begins anew.”

The views and opinions expressed by the organizations featured on this guide and on this website are solely those of the original organizations. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the organization GatherDC, the GatherDC staff, the GatherDC board, and/or any/all contributors to this site.