Do We Light Candles for Passover?: 1 Minute to Understand Passover Candle Lighting Customs

Yes, lighting candles is an important tradition at the start of Passover, especially for those observing Jewish customs. On the first two nights of Passover (in Israel, only the first night), families gather to celebrate the Seder—an elaborate meal featuring symbolic foods and recitations. Before the Seder begins, it's customary to light candles to usher in the festival, similar to how candles are lit at the start of Shabbat and other Jewish holidays. The blessing recited acknowledges the sanctity of the festival and, on some years, includes an additional Shehecheyanu blessing, thanking God for reaching this season. Lighting candles not only sets a spiritual tone but also visually transforms your dining table and gathering space, an idea I’m always drawn to as a designer: ambient candlelight instantly elevates the atmosphere, making the Seder experience memorable and intimate. For those considering how to make their festive table even more inviting, think about using layered textiles and thoughtful arrangement of candles and ritual objects—concepts easily simulated in many AI-powered interior design tools to experiment with tablescape layouts before your celebration.

Tips 1:

Coordinate candleholders with your table decor theme, whether that’s modern minimalism, traditional elegance, or eclectic style. Play with heights—mixing tall candlesticks with petite votives—to add dimension and warmth to your Passover table.

FAQ

Q: When exactly do you light candles for Passover?

A: Candles are lit shortly before sunset, right before the Passover Seder begins, usually following the same timing as Shabbat candle lighting in your location.

Q: What blessing do you say when lighting Passover candles?

A: The standard blessing is “Baruch Atah…Lehadlik Ner Shel Yom Tov” (…to kindle the festival light), and on the first night, many also recite the Shehecheyanu blessing.

Q: Do you light candles at the end of Passover too?

A: Traditionally, candles are not lit at the close of Passover, but they are lit at the beginning of any festival days within the holiday, especially outside Israel.

Q: Do you use special candles for Passover?

A: Any standard candles suitable for Jewish holiday candle lighting are acceptable—there’s no unique requirement for Passover candles.

Q: Can I light Passover candles if I don’t have a traditional candleholder?

A: Yes, you may use any stable, safe holder. Just ensure the candle is secure and away from anything flammable for a safe celebration.