Observing Passover in Wheaton: What You Need to Know

It’s almost time to break out the matzo. Passover arrives on March 25 this year, when Jews across the world will come together to retell the Exodus story.

Here's what to know about local business hours during Passover:

- Kosher Pastry Oven on Lamberton Drive in Kemp Mill will be closed during Passover, but will reopen April 3 at 8 a.m. For Sunday and Monday hours, visit its Facebook page.

- Shalom Strictly Kosher Market on Lamberton Drive in Kemp Mill will be open Sunday 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Monday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be closed March 26-27, March 30 and April 1-2. For more details about its business hours, visit its website.

- Max's Kosher Cafe on University Boulevard in Wheaton will be open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., but then it will be closed for the week. It will reopen April 3 at 11 a.m.

- Ben Yehuda Pizza on Lamberton Drive in Kemp Mill will be closed March 25 through April 2. It will reopen April 3 at 11 a.m.

Passover Traditions

As the story goes, during their flight from slavery, the Jews did not have enough time for their dough to rise, resulting in a flaky cracker that is eaten instead of bread for a full week during Passover. The diet changes go beyond bread, however, and depend on family tradition. As a general rule, just look for the “Kosher for Passover” label, which spreads to more products year after year.

Prior to the holiday, Jews clean their homes and get rid of chametz—food that is forbidden during Passover. Check to see if any of your local food pantries will accept your chametz or if your fire department is holding a safe burning of the chametz. The day before, this year on March 24, kids have the chance to search their homes by candlelight for any pieces of chametz left behind.

The Seder

On the first two nights of Passover, a Seder is held. This is when the story of Passover is told with the reading of the Haggadah. Some families even dress up and act out the story. Songs are sung, including "Dayenu," and as tradition, children sing the Four Questions, or Ma Nishtana. Over the course of the night, four cups of wine are consumed to celebrate freedom. Bitter herbs are also eaten as a reminder of the pain of the Jewish slaves.

The middle of the holiday, from March 28-31, is an intermediate period, or Chol HaMoed, when there are fewer restrictions. On these days more observant Jews are allowed to drive and use electronics, and in rare instances, work. The final two days of Passover fall on April 1 and 2, and are considered Holy Days.