Observing Passover in U City: What You Need to Know

It’s time to break out the matzo. Passover arrives on March 25 this year, when Jews across the world will come together to retell the Exodus story over four cups of wine (or grape juice for those who can't indulge), and of course, a large, festive feast.

See our previous coverage: A Night Different From All Others: Jewish Holiday of Passover Begins

Passover Traditions

As the story goes, during their flight from slavery, the Jews did not have enough time for their dough to rise, resulting in a flaky cracker that is eaten instead of bread for a full week during Passover. The diet changes go beyond bread, however, and depend on family tradition. As a general rule, just look for the “Kosher for Passover” label, which thankfully spreads to more products year after year.

Prior to the holiday, Jews clean their homes and get rid of chametz—food that is forbidden during Passover. Check to see if any of your local food pantries will accept your chametz or if your fire department is holding a safe burning of the chametz. The day before, this year on March 24, kids have the chance to search their homes by candlelight for any pieces of chametz left behind.

The Seder

On the first two nights of Passover, a Seder is held. This is when the story of Passover is told with the reading of the Haggadah. Some families even dress up and act out the story. Songs are sung, including "Dayenu," and as tradition, children sing the Four Questions, or Ma Nishtana. Over the course of the night, four cups of wine are consumed to celebrate freedom. Bitter herbs are also eaten as a reminder of the pain of the Jewish slaves.

The middle of the holiday, from March 28 to 31, is an intermediate period, or Chol HaMoed, when there are fewer restrictions. On these days more observant Jews are allowed to drive and use electronics, and in rare instances, work. The final two days of Passover fall on April 1 and 2, and are considered Holy Days.

Here are some resources for all your Passover needs:

Area kosher stores and restaurants include:

• Diamant Kosher Meat Market
• Straub's in Clayton has a Passover menu available for ala carte pickup.
• Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt

University City synagogues include:

• Agudas Israel Synagogue
• Bais Abraham Congregation
• Beth HaMedrosh Hagodol Sha'arei Chesed Shul
• Chabad of Greater St. Louis
• Nusach Hari-B'nai Zion Congregation
• Shaare-Zedek Synagogue
• Young Israel of St Louis

For some educational fun with the kids, check out the Rugrats Passover special here.