The Passover holiday, or Pesach, is one of the most important Jewish celebrations.
Between the 15th and 22nd of Nisan (March or April) the Jewish people rejoice in their liberation from slavery in Egypt.
Pesach is a solemn occasion because the people remember what their ancestors went through before God smote the land of Egypt and Moses led the people from captivity to the Promised Land.
Pesach is also a joyful time in the life of the Jewish because the people are thankful to God for delivering them, and they celebrate His goodness and mercy.
Passover is also a time for the Jewish people to unite together as family units honoring the traditions, reuniting with their faith, and keeping the holiday true to its intentions.
Vacation in California during Pesach?
During Pesach, especially the first and last days of the seven days long celebration, the Jewish people are not supposed to work.
This is a holiday celebrating their release from bondage, and in keeping with that release they are not supposed to toll or work.
Pesach is the perfect time for Jewish observers to take a family vacation, enjoy the freedom of a few days without any responsibilities or commitments to their jobs.
California is a fabulous state for this celebration. In California there are several resorts that prepare specifically for the Passover.
The resorts consult with Jewish Rabbis and elders to make certain that they have everything prepared for their occupants during this extraordinary week.
Preparations for Seder
If Jewish families remain in their homes, they begin to prepare for the Seder celebration at least one week in advance.
The main focus of this preparation is to make sure the foods in the house are Passover kosher.
There can be no Chametz in the home, kitchen, or family areas the people are in.
To be Passover kosher food must not just be kosher, food must not come into contact with chametz or what is considered to be chametz utensils.
Any food mixed with a leavening agent is considered chametz and must be removed.
The rising that the leavening agents cause represents the enslaving of the soul that occurs when ego and self-worth are allowed to fill the observers’ heart and mind.
To honor this Jewish tradition the preparation areas of the resort are overseen with rabbinical supervision and suggestions.
The resorts take great pride in preparing the Passover kosher foods that Jewish observers require.
Occupants of the resort can be assured that after the fourth halachic hour on the day preceding Pesach there will be no chametz in the foods as they are prepared and served.
Utensils are made kosher through boiling, and fire exposure. Utensils that cannot be made kosher like China, pottery, and sieves are removed from the resort so they do not contaminate the Passover kosher foods.
In the bathrooms, spas, and recreational areas of the resort there are no soaps, cosmetics, shampoos, or other items that contain chametz are removed.
You really can vacation in California during this religious holiday without fear of breaking traditional requirements.
Religious Observances
The resorts have prepared their spaces so the religious teachings, prayer times, and educational times are structured into the events they offer.
Vacationing in California during Pesach is a wonderful thing for families, but the majority of Jewish families also want the young of the family to pray, worship, and learn during this time.
American Jewish University
Jewish Passover observers can relish in the holiday by booking a cottage or cabin at the Brandeis-Bardin Campus of the American Jewish University for the holiday week.
At the university all of the food that is served is sealed in such a way as to protect it from Kashrut.
Semi-private Seder celebrations for your family group are available. Religious services and observances are given the highest priority.
Fun activities and entertainment are also a big part of the program here. Jewish people know that Passover is a celebration and the people should enjoy the week, and revel in their freedom.
Activities offered at the Jewish University
You will not have time to get bored during your Passover vacation in California if you stay at the university.
The activities are numerous and varied so everyone has the opportunity to do something they will enjoy, and make memories they can take home with them.
Tomahawk and axe throwing will allow you to develop skills while you enjoy the outdoor surroundings.
Archery lessons and competitions will challenge you and let you demonstrate your prowess with these primitive weapons.
When you are finished you can take a relaxing swim to wash away the sore muscles and perspiration.
Horseback riding through the countryside will give you an up-close look at the natural beauty of the area.
God created amazing locations here on earth for people to enjoy, and when you are hiking, or riding a mountain bike through these exquisite locations you get to connect closer with the bounties He made available.
Lectures and educational services are planned and conducted by the scholars who reside at the university.
You will have the opportunity to learn more about the Pesach celebration, understand the symbolism and significance behind each required action, and share in the wonder and worship with other like-minded individuals.
Final Thoughts A Pesach in California can be as fun as you want it to be.
The vacation can combine the fun things you want to do, and the religious observances your heart leads you to do.
One thing is for sure about a Pesach in California, your family will appreciate and remember the experience for years to come.