How Long Does Passover Last and Why?

Passover (Pesach) begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nissan and commemorates the Exodus from Egypt. One of the most common questions about the holiday is how long it lasts — and why the length differs depending on location.

The answer reflects both biblical instruction and historical development within Jewish communities.

How Many Days Is Passover?

In Israel, Passover lasts for seven days. Outside of Israel — including in Canada and other diaspora communities — Passover is observed for eight days.

This means that Jewish households outside Israel maintain Passover practices, including the avoidance of chametz, for a full eight days.

What Is the Biblical Basis for Seven Days?

The Torah describes Passover as a seven-day festival. The first and seventh days are designated as special holy days, during which certain types of work are restricted.

During this time, chametz is not eaten, and matzah becomes the primary bread consumed throughout the holiday.

For more on the role of chametz during Passover, see What Is Chametz and Why Is It Avoided on Passover?.

Why Is Passover Eight Days Outside Israel?

The additional eighth day observed outside Israel developed in ancient times, when the Jewish calendar was determined by witnesses who reported the new moon to the court in Jerusalem.

Because news of the exact calendar date did not always reach distant communities in time, Jewish communities outside Israel began observing an extra day of certain festivals to avoid mistakenly ending the holiday too early.

Over time, this practice became an established tradition in the diaspora. As a result, Passover remains seven days in Israel and eight days outside Israel.

What Are the First and Last Days of Passover?

The first day of Passover (and the second day outside Israel) is considered a full festival day. The final day (or final two days outside Israel) is also observed with festival restrictions.

Between these days are intermediate days known as Chol HaMoed, which combine elements of regular weekday activity with holiday observance.

What Is Chol HaMoed?

Chol HaMoed refers to the intermediate days of Passover that fall between the opening and closing festival days. While chametz remains prohibited, certain types of work are permitted.

These days often include family outings, communal gatherings, and continued focus on Passover themes. They bridge the structure of the full festival days while maintaining the unique atmosphere of the holiday.

When Does the Prohibition of Chametz End?

The prohibition against eating or owning chametz continues for the entire duration of Passover — seven days in Israel and eight days outside Israel.

Only after the holiday concludes may chametz once again be consumed. This is why careful preparation before Passover is so important. For a step-by-step overview of preparation, see How to Prepare a Home for Passover.

Summary

Passover lasts seven days in Israel and eight days in Jewish communities outside Israel. The additional day observed in the diaspora reflects historical calendar practices that became permanent tradition. Understanding the structure of the holiday — including its opening and closing days and the intermediate Chol HaMoed — helps clarify how Passover is observed from beginning to end.