Why do People Call Tu B’Shevat “New Year” or a “Birthday” for the Trees?

Kids holding newly potted plants

In the Hebrew calendar, wintertime features a green surprise . . . a birthday party for the trees! This nature-lover’s holiday is called Tu B’Shevat, which literally refers to the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. In ancient Israel, this day was especially important for farmers. According to Jewish law, fruit should be picked and eaten only from trees that are at least four years old; Tu B’Shevat helped farmers keep track of their trees’ ages. But whenever there’s a chance to have a celebration, why not take it? Tu B’Shevat has become a day to celebrate trees and their special role in the world—and to plant new ones to keep our planet green. So, how does a person have a birthday party for trees? Follow along or use the buttons below to learn more.

Have a Seder

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Host a Tu B’Shevat Seder

Tu B’Shevat and Passover have another something in common—a seder! A Tu B’Shevat seder is a fantastic way to connect with the land of Israel and celebrate what’s growing there, no matter where we live. The Torah calls Israel “a land of wheat, and barley, and grapevines; of fig trees and pomegranates; a land of olive oil and honey.” These “seven species” (in Hebrew, shivat haminim) are at the heart of the Tu B’Shevat celebration (the honey in this case is from date trees, not bees). Other native foods are eaten too, like almonds and carob. It’s a real festival of fruit: