Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian enslavement. This festive celebration lasts for eight days and consists of various traditional practices, from storytelling to enjoying symbolic meals. If you’re looking for unique ways to honor and celebrate Passover this year, consider these three ideas.

1. Host a Virtual Seder

The Seder is a crucial part of Passover observance and typically involves gathering with family and friends to share a special meal filled with symbolic foods. With the ongoing pandemic, many people may still be unable to meet in person, but that doesn’t mean you can’t commemorate this important event together. Host a virtual Seder using video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype, where everyone can join remotely. Prepare your Seder plate, light the candles together and lead the Haggadah reading while everyone follows along at their respective locations. This approach keeps everyone connected in a safe and meaningful way during these unprecedented times.

2. Explore Traditional Passover Recipes from Around the World

One of the joys of Passover is indulging in traditional foods that vary across Jewish communities worldwide. This year, consider incorporating an international twist into your Pesach menu by trying out recipes from various Jewish traditions. Some examples include Sephardic charoset with dates and nuts, Ashkenazi gefilte fish and matzo balls, or Ethiopian doro wat served with matzo instead of injera bread. By exploring different Passover recipes, you’ll have a deliciously diverse feast that brings new flavors to your Seder table.

3. Engage in Interactive Passover Activities for All Ages

While engaging children in Passover storytelling is essential, keeping them entertained throughout the whole Seder can sometimes be challenging. Bring excitement and fun into your home by incorporating interactive activities for all ages during your celebration. Organize a DIY matzo-making session, create hand-painted afikomen bags, or hide the afikomen (a broken piece of matzo) and reward whoever finds it with a special gift to emphasize the sense of search and discovery. For something more informative, consider discussing Passover-related social justice issues or modern-day parallels to the Exodus story.

By incorporating these unique elements into your Passover celebration, you can create memorable experiences for you and your loved ones – all while upholding tradition and reflecting on the importance of freedom.