Passover programs in Miami Beach, Florida (Envato)
As soon as Purim ends, many people head straight for their Pesach kitchen to start cooking for Passover. Others wait until the last minute, but we're not talking about them because, honestly, that's just crazy.
For a growing number of families, though, preparing for Passover looks very different. Instead of cleaning the house from top to bottom and cooking for days, they're searching for a Passover program where the meals, Seders and holiday arrangements are taken care of.
At Totally Jewish Travel, we've been covering kosher travel and Passover programs for more than 25 years. Whether you're considering your first Pesach vacation or you've been going away for years, we're here to help you understand your options and find a program that fits.
This two-part guide covers everything from the basics to choosing a destination. In Part 1, we'll explain what Passover programs are, how they work and what you can expect. In Part 2, we explore popular Passover program destinations around the world.
When Is Passover in 2027?
Passover 2027 begins on Wednesday night, April 21, with the first Seder, and ends on Thursday night, April 29.
In Israel, Passover is observed for seven days, ending on Wednesday night, April 28, while outside Israel, the holiday lasts eight days. Not sure why there's a difference? Read our explanation of why Passover is seven days in Israel and eight days in the Diaspora.
For the full holiday calendar, including dates for upcoming years, check out our When Is Passover? guide.
What is a Passover Program?
A Passover program is a Pesach vacation package organized by a tour operator, who typically books all or part of a hotel or resort for the holiday. Guests stay at the property and enjoy kosher-for-Passover meals, Seders and holiday services without having to prepare everything themselves.
Most programs include three meals a day, snacks and refreshments, daily minyanim and organized Seders. Many also offer children's day camps, teen activities, shiurim, guest speakers and evening entertainment. The amount of programming varies, so it's worth checking exactly what's offered.
Some programs arrange optional Chol Hamoed excursions or offer access to resort amenities such as pools, sports facilities and spas. These activities and services may be included in the package or available at an additional cost.
Passover programs come in all shapes and sizes, from luxury beachfront resorts to smaller, more affordable hotels. Prices vary depending on the destination, accommodations, length of stay and level of service. Flights are generally not included, although some operators offer travel arrangements.
Each program has its own kashrut supervision and Pesach standards, so travelers should check the details before booking.
Why do People go on Passover Programs?
Let's be honest, making Passover at home is a lot of work. For many families, the biggest appeal of a Pesach program is being able to enjoy the holiday without weeks of cleaning, shopping and cooking.
But there's more to it than avoiding the preparations.
Passover is often one of the few times a year when children have an extended break from school, making it a popular time for family vacations. Many extended families use the holiday as an opportunity for a reunion, sharing Seders, reconnecting with relatives and spending time together.
For others, it's about meeting new people. Passover programs bring together guests from different communities and countries, offering opportunities to socialize, reconnect with old friends and make new ones.
And of course, there's the chance to travel. With programs in destinations across the United States, Israel, Europe and beyond, some families make it a tradition to explore somewhere new each year while celebrating Pesach in a kosher environment.
Food and Kashrut at Passover Programs: Gebrochts, Kitniyot and More
Food is one of the highlights of many Passover programs, and there's usually plenty of it! In addition to three full meals a day, many programs offer snacks, refreshments and elaborate tea rooms throughout the holiday. Depending on the program, guests may also enjoy poolside BBQs, themed dinners and special holiday menus.
Tour operators often bring in their own chefs, hire kosher caterers or work with the hotel's culinary team to prepare meals throughout Pesach. The style of dining varies, from extensive buffets to more formal, restaurant-style meals.
When it comes to kashrut, each program has its own supervision and Pesach standards. Programs generally have a mashgiach (kosher supervisor) on-site, and guests should check which rabbi or kosher organization oversees the food preparation and service.
Customs also vary. Some programs serve gebrochts (matzah or matzah products mixed with liquid), while others are strictly non-gebrochts. Many programs do not serve kitniyot, such as rice and legumes, although some programs catering to Sephardic guests may include them. Other considerations include Chalav Yisrael, Shmurah Matzah and additional Pesach stringencies.
Pesach food is always a big topic, and everyone has their own traditions and expectations. Before booking, check the program's kashrut supervision, food policies and dining arrangements to make sure they meet your family's needs.
Passover programs provide meals (Envato)
What do people do at Passover Programs?
So much to say, so little space. Passover programs aren't only about the food (just mostly about the food).
Beyond the meals, many programs offer a schedule of activities for different ages and interests. Daily minyanim, shiurim and guest lectures are common, and some programs even offer continuing education opportunities, including CME and CLE credits. If that's important to you, check the details before booking.
Children and teens often have their own programming, from day camps and arts and crafts to sports and evening activities. Adults can attend lectures, participate in fitness or wellness classes, or simply enjoy some well-earned downtime.
Evening entertainment is another highlight, particularly during Chol Hamoed. Depending on the program, guests might enjoy concerts, comedians, musical performances or special guest speakers. Some larger programs bring in well-known entertainers and scholars-in-residence.
Resort amenities are also part of the appeal. Depending on the location, guests may have access to swimming pools, spas, golf courses, beaches and water sports. Some programs also arrange optional Chol Hamoed excursions to nearby attractions, occasionally with a packed kosher-for-Passover lunch (again, it always comes back to the food).
Whether you're looking to relax, learn, enjoy family activities or explore somewhere new, there's a wide variety of Passover program experiences to choose from.
Wrapping It Up: What’s Next for Your Pesach Plans?
So, there you have it. Passover programs in a nutshell! We've covered what they are, what to expect and why so many families choose to spend Pesach away from home.
Wondering where to go? Check out Part 2 of Passover Programs 101: Top Destinations for Your Pesach Vacation for a look at popular and emerging destinations around the world.
Ready to see what's available? Browse our Passover Programs 2027 listings to compare destinations, hotels and program details.