When is Fast of Esther 2026?
Fast of Esther 2026 falls on March 2, 2026. Fast commemorating Queen Esther's fast before approaching King Ahasuerus.
Holiday Details
| Holiday Name | Fast of Esther |
|---|---|
| Gregorian Date | March 2, 2026 |
| Hebrew Date | י"ג באדר ה'תשפ"ו |
| Day of Week | Monday |
| Type | Fast Day |
| Day Off Work | No |
| School Holiday | No |
About the Fast of Esther
The Fast of Esther is observed on the eve of Purim, commemorating the fast Queen Esther undertook before approaching King Ahasuerus to save the Jewish people from Haman's decree. In 2026 it falls on Monday, March 2 (13 Adar).
The fast begins at dawn and ends at nightfall (~13 hours in winter). Unlike Tisha B'Av and Yom Kippur, this is a relatively "light" fast - only food and drink, without restrictions on washing or leather shoes. Pregnant and nursing women and the ill are exempt.
The Fast of Esther is a regular school day. The next day - Purim - is a full day off!
Customs
- 🕯️ Fast from dawn to nightfall
- 💰 Machatzit HaShekel - Giving 3 coins to charity commemorating the Temple half-shekel
- 📖 Torah reading "Vayechal" - Special readings at morning and afternoon prayers
- 🙏 Selichot and Anenu - Special prayer additions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Fast of Esther 2026 falls on March 2, 2026.
No, Fast of Esther is not an official day off work.
Yes, Fast of Esther is a regular school day.
You can add Fast of Esther to your calendar with one click using the ALMO AI app - a smart calendar with all Israeli holidays.
The fast begins at dawn (~5:15 AM) and ends at nightfall (~6:05 PM) on Monday March 2, 2026.
Pregnant and nursing women, the ill, children under Bar/Bat Mitzvah age, and anyone whose health may be endangered.
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Frequently Asked Questions
+ What date is the Fast of Esther in 2026?
The Fast of Esther in 2026 falls on March 2nd. With ALMO AI, you can easily add this and other important dates to your calendar and receive timely reminders.
+ Why do we fast on the Fast of Esther?
The Fast of Esther commemorates the fasting undertaken by the Jewish people in the story of Esther, as they prepared to plead for their lives. Using ALMO AI, you can learn more about Jewish holidays and customs and integrate them into your daily schedule for a more meaningful experience.
+ How long is the Fast of Esther?
The Fast of Esther is a sunrise-to-sunset fast, typically lasting around 12-14 hours depending on the time of year. ALMO AI can help you plan your day around the fast, reminding you of start and end times, and even suggest appropriate activities.
+ What are the customs and traditions of the Fast of Esther?
Common customs include fasting, prayer, and giving to charity. ALMO AI can assist you in observing these traditions by providing relevant information, setting reminders for prayer times, and even helping you find charitable organizations.
+ How can I remember the date of the Fast of Esther each year?
Instead of relying on manual calendar entries, use ALMO AI! ALMO AI allows you to automatically add all Jewish holidays to your calendar and receive notifications, ensuring you never miss an important date like the Fast of Esther.