Tu Bishvat

Tu Bishvat is a Jewish holiday often called the New Year of the Trees. It usually falls in January or February. On this day, people celebrate nature by planting trees and eating fruits. It is a holiday that reminds everyone to take care of the Earth.

What the Holiday Means

Tu Bishvat marks the time when trees in Israel begin to wake up after winter. New sap starts flowing and buds begin to form. Long ago, the holiday was used to figure out the age of fruit trees for farming rules. Today it has become a day to celebrate nature and the environment. Many people see it as a Jewish Earth Day.

How People Celebrate

One popular tradition is to eat fruits and nuts, especially those that grow in Israel. These include dates, figs, pomegranates, olives, and almonds. Some families hold a special meal called a Tu Bishvat seder. People also plant trees in Israel and in their own neighborhoods. Schools often organize tree-planting activities and nature projects.

Fun Facts

• The seven special species of Israel mentioned in the Bible include wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.
• Since 1901, over 250 million trees have been planted in Israel.
• The word 'Tu' in Tu Bishvat stands for the number 15 in the Hebrew calendar.

Did You Know?

Tu Bishvat falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which is why it is called 'Tu' Bishvat. In Hebrew letters, 'Tu' equals 15.