Start Planning Now: Why Early Booking for Passover 2026 is Essential

Photo: Envato

 

As summer winds down and the High Holidays approach, Passover may feel like it’s still a long way off. But believe it or not, now is exactly the time to start thinking about your Pesach 2026 plans. The Passover program world runs on a very different schedule than a typical vacation, and the best spots often get booked months in advance. If you’re hoping for the perfect getaway next spring, it’s worth starting your research now and reserving early. While most vacations can be planned at the last minute, Passover is a different story—and here’s why. 

 

 

During most of the year, you have a wide range of options for kosher travel. With kosher food accessible in many cities and Chabad houses offering support almost anywhere, spontaneous trips are manageable. You can bring food, enjoy Shabbat meals with Chabad, or dine at local kosher restaurants.

 

However, Passover is an entirely different ballgame. Many kosher restaurants worldwide close for the holiday, and the restrictions on food during Pesach make it difficult to plan an independent trip. Outside of Israel, joining a Passover program is often the best way to enjoy a stress-free holiday with kosher-for-Pesach food and programming.

 

 

Although Passover 2026 is still eight months away, the wheels are already turning for program operators. Many of them have already secured their locations or are deep in negotiations. While it might seem far off, running a successful eight-day Passover program is a complex endeavor, with months of planning and coordination behind the scenes. Operators who return to the same hotel each year often secure their deals right after the previous Pesach ends.

 

If you have your eye on a specific Passover program or destination, now’s the time to act. Many families attend the same program year after year, meaning they've already reserved their spots for 2026. Others who like to try new locations each year have already started doing their research, so they can book early and lock in their Pesach program before it sells out.

Early Bird Deals: Save by Booking Ahead

Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Photo: Envato)

 

When it comes to Passover programs, some destinations are consistently popular year after year, while others are rapidly gaining traction. Here’s a look at some of the top places to consider for Passover 2026:

 

Europe remains a favorite for Passover programs, especially for those seeking a mix of luxury, culture, and history. Destinations like Spain, Italy, and Greece often host top-tier programs that sell out quickly. The allure of celebrating Passover while exploring historic cities, indulging in gourmet kosher cuisine, and enjoying world-class amenities is hard to resist. If Europe is on your radar, you’ll want to start making inquiries soon—many of these programs are fully booked months in advance. Guide to Passover programs in Europe

 

For those looking to stay closer to home, the United States offers a wide range of Passover programs across the country. Florida remains a top destination, with its sunny weather, variety of luxury resorts, and well-established programs. New Jersey, California, and Arizona also host many excellent options. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a mountain retreat, the U.S. has it all—but as always, the best programs go quickly. Guide to Passover Programs in the U.S.

 

Mexico continues to be a hotspot for kosher travelers, with Cancun and Riviera Maya leading the charge. These beachside paradises offer warm weather, beautiful resorts, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The all-inclusive nature of these programs—often held at luxury hotels—combined with top-notch entertainment and cuisine, make Mexico a strong contender for Passover 2026. But don’t wait too long; these programs are incredibly popular and can fill up fast. Guide to Passover programs in Mexico

 

Israel remains one of the most popular destinations for the chagim, and Passover is no exception. Even after nearly two years of conflict, visitors have continued to come to the Holy Land to celebrate, volunteer, and show support. There is something special about spending Passover in Israel, going to the kotel for Birkat Kohanim and going on tiyulim during Chol Hamoed. While some airlines have canceled flights during this time, El Al has maintained service throughout, making it the most reliable choice if you’re planning to be in Israel for Pesach. Guide to Passover programs in Israel

The kotel on Chol Hamoed (Photo: Shutterstock)
 

 

While planning for Passover is crucial, don't forget the more immediate holidays. Sukkot programs are now in high gear, with many families making final plans for the fall. And for those looking to get away over winter break, now is the time to start booking. These holidays offer their own unique travel experiences, but the demand for Passover programs typically surpasses all other times of the year.

 

 

The bottom line is, if you’re even thinking about joining a Passover program for 2026, the time to act is now. Whether you’re eyeing a European escape, a tropical getaway in Mexico, a luxurious program in the U.S., or a meaningful experience in Israel, starting your research early gives you the best chance of getting into your preferred program. As the summer winds down and we begin to focus on the chagim and Sukkot programs, don’t forget to keep an eye on Passover 2026. It may be months away, but in the world of Passover programs, it’s already right around the corner.

 

With so many fantastic options out there, getting ahead of the rush ensures you’ll find the program that perfectly fits your family’s needs and preferences. Happy planning!