What is Tu B’Av?
July 15, 2025 | Shabbat and Holidays
By Jodi Teitelman
Tu B’Av: The Jewish Version of Valentine’s Day
Tu B’Av, often called the “Jewish Day of Love,” may not be as widely celebrated as other Jewish holidays, but its message to love one another and ourselves is timeless. Falling on the 15th of the Hebrew month of Av (usually in early to mid-August), Tu B’Av is associated with joy, connection and all kinds of love. This year, Tu B’av falls on Friday, August 8 – Saturday, August 9.
Tu B’Av in the Past
In ancient times, Tu B’Av was a joyful day of matchmaking. Young, single women would dress in white and dance in the vineyards while eligible bachelors looked on, hoping to find their match. The day, however, also marked the end of the mourning period of Tisha B’Av. In fact, some say Tu B’Av was once considered the happiest day of the year during the time of the Second Temple.
Tu B’Av in the Present
Today, Tu B’Av has been reclaimed as a Jewish version of Valentine’s Day. It’s a day to pause and reflect on what love means to you and how you show that love to your friends, family, community, and importantly, yourself!
Here are some ways you can celebrate Tu B’Av:
- Tell someone you love them: Call, text or share in-person with someone close to you and let them know how much they mean to you. This could be your partner, best friend, grandchild or anyone else.
- Treat yourself: Whether it’s a solo coffee date, a walk in a park or finally purchasing that item on your wish list, take a moment to do something just for you.
- Discover your love language: Take the 5 Love Languages quiz and learn how you give and receive love.
- Volunteer with The Network: Share your love with the greater Baltimore community through one of our many volunteer opportunities.
- Spend time with your people: Host a casual dinner party, take a walk with a friend or plan a family picnic. Tu B’Av reminds us that connection is worth celebrating.
Tu B’Av reminds us that love of all forms deserves to be celebrated. No matter how you choose to mark this holiday, do it with intention and with love!