Discover the meaning and traditions of Lag BaOmer—from bonfires to haircuts. Dive in and learn more about this joyful celebration today!

Lag BaOmer

Lag BaOmer is celebrated on the 33rd day of the Counting of the Omer—a joyful break in an otherwise solemn season between Passover and Shavuot. It falls on the 18th of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar and typically lands in May on the Gregorian calendar. When is Lag BaOmer?

This day is associated with ancient sages, mysterious miracles, and symbolic light. What does Lag BaOmer mean? What is Lag BaOmer? What does Lag BaOmer commemorate? Why is Lag BaOmer celebrated? Why Lag BaOmer? Why is Lag BaOmer important? What is the significance of Lag BaOmer? Why is Lag BaOmer a special day? Why is Lag BaOmer celebrated in the Bible?

Counting the Omer
The Omer is a 49-day period beginning on the second night of Passover, counting up to the holiday of Shavuot. What is the significance of counting the omer? What is forbidden during the Omer?

Lag BaOmer marks day 33, a moment when the sadness lifts—some say because a deadly plague among Rabbi Akiva’s students ceased. Who died on Lag BaOmer?

Bonfires and Bows
One of the most iconic Lag BaOmer traditions is lighting bonfires. Why do we have bonfires on Lag BaOmer? Why do we light bonfires on Lag BaOmer? These flames honor the spiritual light of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, a mystic sage said to have passed on this day.

Children also play with bows and arrows, symbolizing peace and divine protection. How is Lag BaOmer celebrated?

Haircuts and Weddings
Lag BaOmer is also associated with upsherin, a ceremonial haircut for three-year-old boys. Does Chabad get haircuts on Lag BaOmer? Are you allowed to get a haircut on Lag BaOmer? Can you shave on Lag BaOmer? Can you shave after Lag BaOmer?

Weddings and festive events are permitted again on this date. Can you get married after Lag BaOmer?

How People Celebrate
Wondering what people actually do or say? What do you do on Lag BaOmer? What do people do on Lag BaOmer? What is celebrated on Lag BaOmer? What do you say on Lag BaOmer?

From family hikes and picnics to bonfire dancing and community parades, there’s no shortage of joy. How to celebrate Lag BaOmer?

Lag BaOmer for Kids
Want to explain it to little ones? What is Lag BaOmer for kids? How to explain Lag BaOmer to kids?

Practical Info
How long is Lag BaOmer?
How to pronounce Lag BaOmer?
Can you work on Lag BaOmer?
What is Lag BaOmer 2026?
Who celebrates Lag BaOmer?

In Short
Lag BaOmer is a spirited celebration of faith, resilience, and Jewish identity. Whether you’re lighting a bonfire, giving a first haircut, or just wondering what it’s all about—this day offers something for everyone.