Passover feels later this year, so when is it? What to know about the Jewish holiday:

The wait to display the Seder plate is nearly over. Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is just around the corner.

Passover is one of the most sacred and widely observed holidays in the Jewish religion, according to History.com. The celebration begins a few weeks later than last year, but it typically starts on a day in March or April.

So when is Passover and what is the story behind this religious holiday?

When is Passover 2024?

This year, Passover starts before sundown on Monday, April 22, and concludes after nightfall on April 30 in the United States. Many Jewish communities will host Seders the first two nights of the holiday.

Passover is later than last year. In 2023, it began at sundown Wednesday, April 5, and ended at sundown Thursday, April 13, according to USA Today.

What is Passover?

Passover is considered the "festival of freedom," according to USA Today. It is a celebration of the Jewish people's freedom from slavery in Egypt. The holiday is rooted in the biblical story of Moses and the 10 plagues, freeing the Jewish people from Egypt, according to History.com.

The term Passover comes from the Israelites marking the doors of their homes with lamb's blood. This saved their firstborn son from one of the 10 plagues and allowed the angel of death to pass over their house, according to History.com.

How is Passover celebrated?

Jewish people observing Passover will often gather for a Seder, which is the ritual combination of service and dinner, according to USA Today.

Some Jewish families or groups will display a Seder plate, the “centerpiece” of Seders that hold symbolic foods marking the holiday. For example, maror, or bitter herbs, represent the bitterness of slavery.

Seders involve moving through a book called a Haggadah, which contains stories, prayers, poetry and other teachings, according to USA Today.

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What food is eaten (or not eaten) during Passover?

Food served during Passover will differ depending on family traditions, according to TIME. Some dishes include matzo ball soup, gefilte fish, beef brisket, chicken and potatoes. Matzo, an unleavened bread, is a well-known symbol of Passover.

Many Jews during Passover do not eat certain leavened foods, known as chametz. The dietary changes “reflect the plight of the Israelites as they left Egypt," according to USA Today.

Should I say “Happy Passover” or other greetings?

If you want to greet a loved one who is celebrating Passover, “Happy Passover” is an appropriate sentiment.

You could also say “chag sameach,” which means happy holiday in Hebrew, or chag kasher v’sameach, which means have a happy and kosher Passover.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: When is Passover 2024? What to know about the Jewish holiday