Observing Yom Kippur 2012 in Reston

Jews in Reston and all over the world began celebrating Yom Kippur at sundown on Tuesday.

The holiday, which runs through sunset on Wednesday, is the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture. It is also referred to as the “Day of Atonement,” and the tradition is to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (Sept. 16 to Oct. 8 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

Click here to see service information for local synagogues:

Congregation Beth Emeth

Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation

Shoreshim

Chabad of Reston-Herndon

Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a Jewish month, which is nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively the day before—once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services. Then, for almost 25 hours, the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking and other restrictions.

After the fast, another festive feast, or a yom tov, is customary.

To celebrate the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. But there are a few staples that usually make their way onto the table. Try a honey cake, noodle kugel or brisket.

After the Yom Kippur fast, Jews have a customary "break-the-fast meal," which usually features brunch foods for dinner.