Why does Shabbat start at sunset?
Jewish days run from sunset to sunset. Practically, this means that Shabbat arrives as the sun drops and the sky softens. It’s a weekly pause that meets you right where you live, guided by the light outside your window.
What is candle‑lighting time?
Many communities light candles 18 minutes before local sunset. Those minutes create a gentle buffer, inviting you to step away from weekday tasks and welcome rest with intention.
When does Shabbat end?
Shabbat ends at nightfall, when you can see three medium‑sized stars. Calendars translate that into a clock time called Havdalah. Depending on custom, Havdalah is listed around 42, 50, or 72 minutes after sunset. The exact number reflects different traditions and local practices. You can pick the one that’s right for you.
Why does the time change every week?
Because sunrise and sunset shift a little every day. Summer Fridays arrive late. Winter Fridays arrive early. If you ever feel surprised by how early Shabbat comes in December, you’re not alone.
What about Daylight Saving Time?
Shabbat follows local sunset, not the clock alone. When the clocks change, the listed candle‑lighting time will jump, but it is still anchored to your location’s sunset that day.
Creating a welcoming table
Shabbat is about people more than perfection. Small touches make it feel special without stress:
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A dedicated pair of candleholders and matches you keep in one place every week. Explore: Candleholders and the Match Dish.
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A Kiddush cup that feels good in your hand.
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A soft challah cover to wrap your bread.
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A few thoughtful prompts to spark gratitude and connection, try our Conversation Cards!
Want the essentials in one place? Our Shabbat Box brings together beautiful, handmade pieces from small makers so getting started feels simple and heartfelt. Prefer to choose your colors? See Customize Your Colors.
Local customs to know
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Buffer before sunset: 18 minutes is common across North America. Some communities list 20 minutes. Jerusalem uses 40 minutes.
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Havdalah after sunset: You will see 42, 50, or 72 minutes in different places. Sephardi and Ashkenazi traditions, as well as latitude, can influence the listing.
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Consistency matters more than perfection. Pick an approach and use it week after week so everyone in your household knows the rhythm.
Tips for families and hosts
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Create a Shabbat shelf. Keep your candles, matches, challah cover, and Kiddush cup together so setup takes two minutes.
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Invite a friend. Shabbat grows in the company of others. Gift ideas live here: Gift Sets.
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Traveling soon? We gathered ideas for keeping the magic on the road: 4 Ways To Keep Shabbat Magical While Traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many minutes before sunset is candle‑lighting?
Most communities list 18 minutes. Some use 20. Jerusalem uses 40.
What is Havdalah time?
The listed time to end Shabbat at nightfall. Often 42, 50, or 72 minutes after sunset.
Does Daylight Saving Time matter?
Times follow local sunset. Your calendar adjusts automatically when clocks change.
Where can I learn the basic flow of Shabbat?
Start here: What Is Shabbat?.
Conclusion: Shabbat Arrives Right On Time
However your family keeps track of the clock, Shabbat begins with the light on Friday and ends with the first stars on Saturday night. Let the weekly shift in time be your nudge to slow down, connect, and celebrate. If you’re building your ritual, the Oneg Shabbat Box is a simple, heartfelt place to begin.
New to Shabbat? Our primer walks through the flow of the evening, from lighting to blessing to dinner. Read: What Is Shabbat?
