Sigd 2026 — the complete guide: date, locations and meaning

What is Sigd

Sigd (Ge'ez: "to prostrate") is the Beta Israel holiday celebrated exactly 50 days after Yom Kippur. In 2026 this falls on 29 Cheshvan — Monday, 9 November 2026. The holiday marks a renewal of the covenant with God and the longing for Jerusalem. It has been a national Israeli holiday since 2008 (Sigd Day Law).

Events by city

What we will not print here: opening times, exact addresses, bus routes or registration deadlines. These change year to year, are published by the organisers close to the holiday, and someone arriving on last year's schedule can find a closed gate.

The central ceremony is held each year on the Armon Hanatziv promenade in Jerusalem, led by the Kessim. Municipal ceremonies are held alongside it in cities with large communities — Netanya, Beersheba, Kiryat Malachi, Kiryat Gat, Rehovot and others.

For verified details: Sigd 5787 events — only what the organiser itself published, with a source link and a check date.

The Kes role and fasting

The Kes (Beta Israel priest) leads the Orit (Torah in Ge'ez) reading, guides the fast, and delivers the debrash (sermon). The fast runs from the morning until the prayers conclude and is broken with a communal meal; the exact hour varies by location and is announced by the organisers. Traditional white dress (netela for women, khamis for men) is customary. All are welcome regardless of background — it is a fast day until the prayers end, so eating in public beforehand is not customary, and visitors should let the Kessim lead the ceremony undisturbed.

See also

• Sigd — full explainer
• Sigd funding — right