The Perfect Rosh Hashana Gifts

Rosh Hashanah gift questions

What is a traditional Rosh Hashanah gift?

Honey is the classic, because the new year is greeted with apple dipped in honey — so a jar of small-batch honey, or the dish it gets served in, is always right. Challah knives and serving pieces for the table are the other two that come up most, followed by books for the High Holidays. All of them work as a host gift, and none has to be expensive.

What should I bring if I am a guest at a Rosh Hashanah meal?

Something that gets used that night, or something that keeps. A honey dish, a serving platter or a jar of artisanal honey all qualify. Flowers are welcome and so is wine, though wine is worth checking on first. Avoid anything that needs cooking or fridge space on the day — the kitchen is already full.

How much do people usually spend?

Most of what is on this page sits between $20 and $60, which covers a good honey dish or a nice jar of honey comfortably. Challah knives run higher once the handle is silver or olive wood. There is no expectation to spend more; a $25 gift chosen for the particular person lands better than an expensive one grabbed in a hurry.