Who doesn’t love a Top 10 list? It was always my favorite part of the David Letterman show. Bet you didn’t even know there were this many reasons to join a Passover program. Whether you call them Passover programs or Pesach vacations, they’re more than just a holiday away from home; they’re a way to make the chag relaxing, meaningful, and even a little indulgent.
But first — what exactly is a Passover program?
A Passover program is a fully organized Pesach experience, usually at a hotel or resort, where everything is handled for you — from gourmet kosher-for-Pesach meals and daily minyanim to activities, entertainment, and even day trips. There are programs to suit a wide range of budgets, from more affordable options to high-end luxury experiences. You simply book your stay, show up, and enjoy the chag without kashering your kitchen, peeling mountains of potatoes, or juggling holiday cooking with family time.
Now, let’s count down the Top 10 Reasons to Join a Passover Program in 2026:
10. Scholars in Residence
Inspiring shiurim, fascinating lectures, and meaningful discussions with rabbis, educators, and community leaders are a highlight of many programs. It’s like bringing the best of your shul’s adult education program on vacation with you.
9. Meet New People
Pesach vacations attract guests from around the world — young families, empty nesters, solo travelers — making it a chance to connect with people you’d never meet otherwise. Many program friendships last long after the matzah crumbs are gone.
8. Excursions
During Chol Hamoed, many programs offer guided tours and day trips — think historical walking tours, nature hikes, wine tastings, or boat rides. Some even provide boxed kosher lunches so you can explore stress-free.
7. Entertainment
Live concerts, comedy nights, mentalists, and family-friendly performances — all built into your stay. After a day of relaxation or sightseeing, evening entertainment is a real highlight.
6. Activities for All Ages
Kids’ camps, teen lounges, pool games, cooking demos, fitness classes — the schedule is packed, and everyone can find their own fun.
5. Quality Family Time
Without the pressure of hosting, cooking, and cleaning, you can actually enjoy the moments that matter — beach walks, Shabbat strolls, and lingering at the table without glancing at the sink.
4. Amazing Destinations
From beachfront resorts in Greece and Costa Rica to mountain retreats in Vail or luxury hotels in Jerusalem, Passover programs take you somewhere unforgettable. It’s a vacation and a chag rolled into one.
3. No Cooking
Eight full days with zero menu planning, grocery shopping, or cooking marathons. At a Pesach program, it’s all done for you — beautifully.
2. No Cleaning
No scrubbing ovens, no pulling out the fridge, no panic over finding that Cheerio from last June. Just pack, arrive, and step straight into Yom Tov mode.
1. The Food
Let’s be honest — this is always number one. Multi-course gourmet meals, lavish buffets, themed dinners, poolside BBQs, and dessert tables that make you forget you’re eating kosher for Pesach. The variety and quality can rival any top kosher restaurant — and you didn’t have to lift a spatula.
Bottom line: Passover programs in 2026 are the ultimate Pesach vacations — no cleaning, no cooking, incredible destinations, top-tier entertainment, endless activities, and, of course, food you’ll dream about until next year.
Ready to find yours? TotallyJewishTravel.com has the largest directory of Passover programs for 2026, with options across the globe to suit every style and budget. Start exploring today and make this Pesach one to remember.