Tisha B’Av

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Tisha B’Av, a solemn day of reflection, remembrance and hope. Honor Jewish history, witness the strength of the spirit!

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATETisha B'Av (9 Av, Hebrew)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYJewish

INTRO

Introduction

Mark your calendars for August 12, as we observe the sacred occasion of Tisha B’Av, one of the most significant dates in the Jewish calendar! Known as the Ninth day of Av in the Hebrew calendar, Tisha B'Av is steeped in rich history. It marks the destruction of both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, a key event in Jewish history that has shaped the course of the religion. Despite its solemn nature, Tisha B’Av is also a testament to the resilience, hope, and the indomitable spirit of the Jewish people. So join us in acknowledging this important day, honoring the past, and envisioning a future filled with peace.

TIMELINE

Tisha B’Av Timeline

Destruction of the First Temple

Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon destroyed the First Temple in Jerusalem, marking the beginning of the Jewish people's Babylonian Exile.

Destruction of the Second Temple

The Romans sacked Jerusalem and destroyed the Second Temple, marking a significant loss for the Jewish community.

Bar Kokhba revolt

End of the Bar Kokhba revolt against the Roman Empire, leading to a significant loss of life and destruction for the Jewish community.

First Crusade Commences

The First Crusade began, resulting in wide-scale persecutions and kill-offs of Jews throughout Europe.

Expulsion from England

King Edward I issued an edict expelling all Jews from England, a devastating event that occured on Tisha B'Av.

Spanish Expulsion

Tisha B’Av marked the final day of the Alhambra Decree that ordered the expulsion of Jews from Spain.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Tisha B’Av

Engage in reflective study

Set aside some time on Tisha B’Av to study Jewish history. Focus your research on key tragic events, the resilience of the Jewish people across centuries, and their enduring hope and love for Jerusalem. This will provide much-needed context and understanding of the spiritual significance of the day.

OBSERVE

Observe a moment of silence

At sunset, as Tisha B'Av begins, observe a moment of silence in respect for the numerous tragedies that befell the Jewish people. Let the tranquility help you contemplate and connect with the sorrow, strength, and hope represented by the day.

ATTEND

Attend a synagogue service

Many synagogues host special services for Tisha B’Av, often including the reading of Eicha (the Book of Lamentations) and kinnot (elegies). Participating in these communal activities can provide a sense of unity and shared remembrance.

WATCH

Watch educational movies or documentaries

Consider watching historical documentaries or films that deal with key events marking Tisha B'Av. It'll allow for a deeper comprehension of the lasting impact of these historic moments and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.

START

Start a Tisha B’Av journal

Begin a tradition of penning down your thoughts, feelings, and reflections on Tisha B’Av in a journal. This can become a personal annual ritual that allows you to express and connect with the intensity and emotions of the day in a private space.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Tisha B’Av is Important

Enables Personal Spiritual Expression

Whether it's through maintaining a Tisha B’Av journal or observing a moment of silence, this day allows individuals to express their personal spiritual reactions to the sorrows, strength, and hope associated with Tisha B’Av. This can be a deeply profound and emotional experience.

It's a Day for Reflection and Learning

Tisha B'Av offers a unique opportunity to engage in study and reflection. Not only does it give us a greater understanding of Jewish history and its key tragic events, but it also emphasizes the resilience and enduring hope of the Jewish people throughout centuries.

Fosters Unity and Shared Remembrance

With special synagogue services including readings of Eicha (Book of Lamentations) and kinnot (elegies), Tisha B’Av brings communities together for shared remembrance. This fosters a sense of unity and collective strength among the Jewish people.