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Jewish American Heritage Month

Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month by learning about the culture, history, and achievements of the Jewish community in America!

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month beginning May 1 and honor the incredible contributions that Jewish Americans have made to our culture! This national observance was established in 2006 to recognize the unique history and culture of the Jewish American community. Throughout the month, there will be many ways to commemorate this important part of our nation's history, including festivals, lectures, exhibitions and more. So join in on the celebration and show your support for this vibrant culture!

TIMELINE

Jewish American Heritage Month Timeline

First Jewish Settlement

A group of 23 Jewish refugees from Brazil settled in New Amsterdam, now New York City, marking the earliest known Jewish settlement in America.

Jews in American Revolution

American Jews took an active role on both sides of the American Revolution, showcasing their strong commitment to the nation.

Jewish Immigration Boom

A large influx of Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe came to America, significantly increasing the Jewish population in the United States.

Jews in World War II

American Jews played significant roles in World War II, both as soldiers in the American forces and as advocates for Jewish refugees.

First Jewish VP Candidate

Senator Barbara Boxer became the first Jewish woman to run for vice president, marking a significant milestone in Jewish American heritage.

Jewish American Heritage Month

The United States Congress officially declared May as Jewish American Heritage Month in recognition of the achievements and contributions of Jewish Americans.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month

Visit a Jewish Museum

Explore the history of Jewish Americans by visiting a Jewish museum. You can learn more about their culture and the contributions they made to the United States.

ATTEND

Attend a Jewish American Heritage Month Event

Many cities have special events during Jewish American Heritage Month that feature music, art, and food from the Jewish culture. Attend one of these events to connect with the community and learn more about their heritage.

READ

Read a Jewish American Book

Reading books from Jewish American authors is a great way to celebrate their heritage. Check out your local library for books that explore the history and culture of Jewish Americans.

MAKE

Make a Jewish American Dish

Cooking a traditional Jewish meal is a great way to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month. Try your hand at making matzo ball soup, latkes, or challah bread and enjoy a taste of the culture.

WATCH

Watch a Documentary on Jewish Americans

Watching a documentary about Jewish Americans is an educational way to learn more about their heritage and culture. Check out streaming services for documentaries or look for one at your local library or video store.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Jewish American Heritage Month is Important

Promoting acceptance & understanding

By celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month, we can foster a sense of community and reinforce a message of acceptance and understanding between people from diverse backgrounds. This helps us to come together as a nation, regardless of cultural or religious differences, and create a stronger bond.

Celebrating Jewish culture

Jewish American Heritage Month is a way to celebrate and recognize the contributions of Jews to American society. By taking the time to honor and recognize their history, we can appreciate the unique aspects of Jewish culture that have enriched our nation over many generations.

Recognizing achievements

This month serves as an opportunity to reflect on how Jews have contributed to all aspects of American life, from business, science and medicine to arts, entertainment and activism. From the early arrivals who fled religious persecution in Europe to more recent immigrants, Jews have made significant contributions to our nation's success.

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