What Are Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah?
Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are closely connected Jewish holidays that take place immediately after Sukkot.
Shemini Atzeret is traditionally a time for gathering, prayer, and spiritual reflection, marking the close of the High Holy Day and festival season. This year it takes place Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Simchat Torah, which means “Rejoicing with the Torah,” celebrates the completion of the annual Torah reading cycle and the beginning of a new one. It is a joyful holiday often marked by singing, dancing, and carrying Torah scrolls in celebration with the community.
Simchat Torah Celebration
An energetic evening of dancing, singing, and celebrating the Torah together. Open to all ages and backgrounds. Contact us to register.
October 7 Commemoration
Simchat Torah also marks the Jewish anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks.
As a community, we hold space to remember, reflect, and honour the lives impacted, while continuing to come together in strength, unity, and resilience.
Traditions & Highlights
- Dancing with the Torah (Hakafot)
- Celebrating the completion and restarting of the Torah cycle
- Singing, joy, and community celebration
- Honouring the Torah in a festive and interactive way
- Creating a joyful and welcoming atmosphere for all ages
Recipes
Celebrate with festive holiday foods:
- Stuffed Cabbage: Meat and rice, rolled up in cabbage and cooked in a decadent sauce - a Simchat Torah classic.
- Sweet Brown Rice Kugel: It’s not quite a casserole, or a pudding...
- Desserts and Treats
Photo Gallery
Take a look at past Simchat Torah celebrations filled with music, dancing, and community joy.
