Yom Kippur 2025
Date: October 2, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: Croatia Public Holidays
Description
Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism. It is a time for thinking about mistakes, saying sorry, and trying to be better in the year ahead. It is very serious and quiet.
The date changes every year because it follows the Hebrew calendar. Yom Kippur always falls on the 10th day of the month called Tishri. In the regular calendar it comes in September or October and lasts about a day.
In Croatia the holiday is observed by Jewish communities in cities like Zagreb and Rijeka. Though the Croatian population is mostly not Jewish, these communities mark Yom Kippur as a central spiritual day.
Yom Kippur is significant because it focuses on making amends and restoring relationships with other people and with God. It is a moment for deep personal reflection and for communities to come together in shared purpose.
Traditions
In Croatian Jewish communities people attend long synagogue services in Zagreb, Split, and historically Dubrovnik. They sing traditional prayers like Kol Nidre and Yizkor. The community often gathers at the Jewish community center for shared worship and support during the day.
Families fast and then share two special meals. Before the fast they eat a last meal called seudat mafseket. After the fast they break it gently with dairy, eggs, fish, challah and sweet pastries. Many bring food to communal break fasts at the synagogue.
There are quiet customs too. People wear white or simple clothes and visit cemeteries to remember loved ones. Charitable giving and acts of kindness are common. The service ends with the blowing of the shofar in many communities.
Travel Tips
Check opening hours and public transport times before travel. Many Jewish community centers, kosher eateries, and small shops may be closed or have reduced hours. Book taxis and ferries early, and carry snacks and water in case services are limited.
If you want to join local events, contact the Zagreb or Rijeka Jewish community ahead to confirm times and locations. Keep noise low near synagogues and community centers. Carry ID and be respectful of signage. Wearing comfortable shoes helps if you need to walk between open services and attractions.