Acknowledging holidays and celebrations in October

In October, we acknowledge Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, Diwali and Halloween. Read more about each holiday/celebration below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Yom Kippur: October 1

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It falls on the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei and is dedicated to reflection, repentance and seeking forgiveness.

In 2025, Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 1 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, October 2. It is observed through fasting, prayer and refraining from work or physical comforts, with a focus on spiritual renewal and reconciliation with others and with God. The holiday marks the end of the Ten Days of Awe, a period of introspection that begins with Rosh Hashanah.

Sukkot: October 6

Sukkot is a week-long Jewish festival that begins five days after Yom Kippur and celebrates both the fall harvest and the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. Families mark the occasion by building sukkahs, temporary outdoor shelters made of natural materials where meals are shared and in some cases people sleep. The holiday includes rituals involving the lulav and etrog, symbolic plants that are waved in six directions to acknowledge the presence of the divine. Rooted in joy and gratitude, Sukkot brings communities together through tradition, reflection and celebration.

Shemini Atzeret: October 13

Shemini Atzeret is a Jewish holiday observed immediately after the seven-day festival of Sukkot. Its name means “eighth day of assembly” and marks a transition from the agricultural themes of Sukkot to a more spiritual focus. In synagogues, special prayers for rain known as Tefillat Geshem are recited, reflecting the seasonal shift and the importance of rainfall in Israel.

In Canada and other diaspora communities, Shemini Atzeret is often celebrated alongside Simchat Torah, which marks the completion of the annual Torah reading cycle. While some traditions continue to use the sukkah for meals, it is no longer a requirement. The day is recognized as a time for reflection, renewal and connection to faith.

Diwali: October 20

Diwali or Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a five-day festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Observed by millions across Canada and around the world, the celebration includes lighting oil lamps called diyas, decorating homes, sharing festive meals and exchanging gifts. The holiday often features fireworks and prayers honouring Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity.

While Diwali is rooted in Hindu tradition, it is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists, each with unique historical and spiritual meanings. Sikhs mark the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment, while Jains observe the anniversary of Lord Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana. Across faiths, Diwali is a time of joy, reflection and renewal, bringing communities together in celebration

Halloween: October 31

Halloween, celebrated on October 31, is marked by a variety of traditions and events. It began as a time to remember the dead, including saints and martyrs, and has since evolved into a festive occasion enjoyed by people of all ages.

Common ways to celebrate include trick-or-treating, where children dress in costumes and collect candy door-to-door, as well as Halloween parties ranging from family-friendly gatherings to themed events. Pumpkin carving is also popular, with many creating jack-o’-lanterns to decorate their homes. Haunted attractions such as ghost tours and haunted houses draw thrill-seekers, while some communities host themed quizzes, parties and other local activities. Halloween is a time for fun, creativity and community, with customs that vary by region and tradition.