Celebrate Tu B’Shevat: The Birthday of the Trees

The holiday of Tu B’Shevat, translated as the 15th of the month of Shevat, is a beautiful holiday where we take time to celebrate nature. This year Tu B’Shevat falls out on Thursday, February 13th. Tu B’Shevat is sometimes called the birthday of the trees and is therefore also known as one of the four Jewish new years.

In Israel, where this holiday is focused, this time of year is the beginning of the spring. This might not seem real to us here in Baltimore who are still wearing heavy coats and possibly playing in snow, but in Israel, trees and flowers are starting to bloom. Children living in Israel know that Tu B’Shevat is coming when they see almond trees in bloom or see the vibrant red kalanit/poppy flower covering the countryside.

Ways to Celebrate Tu B’Shevat with Your Family

Host a Tu B’Shevat Seder – This seder is a bit different than the one you might associate with Passover, since this one is all surrounding fruit, and can be much shorter. Never had one before? Looking for new inspiration? PJ Library has you covered.

Take a Nature Walk – Explore your neighborhood and see what’s starting to bloom! Even in the cold, there are signs of life everywhere. Need a fun activity to do along the way? Check out this nature walk game.

Plant a Tree or Houseplant – Trees and plants provide us with oxygen, shade, and homes for countless creatures. Planting something as a family is a meaningful way to mark the holiday. See how our friends at Shalom Sesame celebrated by planting trees together.

Create a Paper Kalanit Bouquet – The kalanit is a symbol of Tu B’Shevat and Israel’s national flower. Have an artist in the family? Try making your own paper kalanit bouquet with these step-by-step instructions.

Read a Tu B’Shevat Story – Snuggle up with a good book! Here are two wonderful PJ Library recommendations:

However you choose to celebrate, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature. And if you feel inspired, give a tree a hug and wish it a happy birthday!