Yom Kippur 2026: Fast Times, Transit Schedules, and Guidelines
Yom Kippur 2026 runs from September 20 to 21. This guide covers fast times in Israel and globally, public transit halts, weather, and labor rights.
Yom Kippur 2026 begins at sunset on Sunday, September 20, and concludes on the evening of Monday, September 21, marking the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. This comprehensive guide details fast times across Israeli cities and international locations, weather forecasts, public transportation suspensions, labor rights, and traditional observances.
Fast Times in Israel and Worldwide
In Israel, fast entry times on Sunday, September 20, begin around 17:58 in Jerusalem, 18:22 in Tel Aviv, 18:09 in Haifa, and 18:21 in Beersheba. The fast concludes on Monday evening, September 21, at 19:13 in Jerusalem, 19:15 in Tel Aviv, 19:15 in Haifa, and 19:15 in Beersheba.
Globally, communities will observe similar schedules adjusted for local time zones. For instance, fast entry in New York is at 18:38 with conclusion at 19:36; in London, entry is at 18:47 and conclusion at 19:53; and in Paris, entry is at 19:36 with conclusion at 20:39.
Weather Forecast and Public Transportation
Weather conditions on the eve of the holiday will be partly cloudy with temperatures reaching around 25C in Haifa, 26C in Tel Aviv, 21C in Jerusalem, and 23C in Beersheba. On Yom Kippur day itself, temperatures will rise slightly above seasonal averages, especially inland and in mountainous regions.
Public transportation across Israel will operate on a reduced schedule on Sunday afternoon before coming to a complete halt ahead of the fast. All bus services, trains, and light rail networks will be suspended during the holiday and will gradually resume on Monday evening after nightfall. Ben Gurion Airport will halt all incoming and outgoing flights during the fast.
Workplace Rights and Regulations
Because Yom Kippur Eve falls on a Sunday, standard labor laws for holiday eves apply. Workdays are shortened to 5-7 hours depending on collective agreements, with work typically concluding at least three hours before the fast begins (around 15:00 in Jerusalem and 15:20 in the central region).
Employees are entitled to use Yom Kippur Eve as an optional choice day (day of selection) for annual leave, provided notice is given 30 days in advance. Those required to work on the holiday itself under specific exemptions are entitled to enhanced compensation rates, including overtime bonuses and compensatory rest days.
Traditions and Observances
Yom Kippur is dedicated to spiritual introspection, prayer, and atonement. Traditional preparations include seeking forgiveness for interpersonal transgressions, performing the Kapparot charity ritual, and partaking in the festive pre-fast meal (Seuda Mafseket).
Key prohibitions during the 25-hour fast include abstaining from food and drink, washing, applying lotions or oils, wearing leather shoes, and engaging in marital relations. Services begin with the Kol Nidre prayer and conclude with the Ne'ila prayer and the sounding of the Shofar.
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