Holocaust Remembrance Day — a solemn modern observance dedicated to the memory of the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and to the resilience of those who survived and rebuilt.
A siren sounds and a nation stops in its tracks — for two minutes, memory is the only thing moving.
Established by the State of Israel in 1951 and observed on the 27th of Nisan, Yom HaShoah anchors the collective memory of the Shoah. Its date falls near the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, joining mourning with a recognition of resistance and dignity. It is a day to remember, to bear witness, and to commit that such horror must never happen again.
In Israel, a two-minute siren stops the entire country as people stand in silence. Around the world, communities hold candle-lighting ceremonies — often six candles for the six million — read the names of victims, share survivor testimony, and recite Kaddish and memorial prayers. Public festivities and entertainment are traditionally suspended.
This is a solemn day of mourning — festive greetings like "Chag Sameach" are not used. It is observed with reflection and remembrance, not celebration.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”— Psalm 34:18
Yom HaShoah 2027 begins at sundown on Monday, May 3 and ends at nightfall on Tuesday, May 4.
Holocaust Remembrance Day, honoring the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis and the courage of those who resisted.
With memorial ceremonies, candle lighting, the reading of victims' names, and — in Israel — a two-minute siren during which the country stands still.
Nothing festive. A simple, sincere acknowledgment of the day's weight is appropriate; it is a time for reflection, not celebration.
Sundown, Mon May 3 – nightfall, Tue May 4, 2027
Like Jewish holy days, Yom HaShoah begins at sundown. Its full name is Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG'vurah — Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day.