Passover is the Jewish holiday that celebrates our freedom, and one of the main traditions is having a seder. Families and loved ones join around a table and retell the dramatic story of the Jews escaping Egypt, and eat a ritual meal as well. Needless to say, the Passover seder table is important.

How do you go about setting the Passover table? We’ll share some ideas below.

What’s on the Passover Seder Table?

The first step to setting the seder table is knowing what goes on it! Click the icons below to learn about some of the traditional items on the Passover table, including the seder plate.

You can purchase any of the items displayed here from Peace Love Light for 10% off with promo code 18Doors: the matzah cover, seder plate (in gold) and ten plagues napkins (not displayed).

Photos courtesy of Ariel Loves and Peace Love Light  

How Do You Set a Seder Table?

With ceremonial items decided by customs and personalized by your imagination, there is no “one size fits all” approach to setting a Passover table. You can curate your very own Passover table by thinking about what makes your family unique. What can you put on the table to make it clear that it belong to you?

There are several ways to create a different type of environment at your seder table from other nights. You may want to use tableware and table linens/textiles, adorn the seder table with flowers, or drape the curtains in the room.

Spend some time learning the significance of each item on the seder plate. Understanding the symbolism not only enriches the seder experience but can also lead you and your guests to create new interpretations.

The Importance of the Passover Table

Did you know that the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob weren’t the only people to leave Egypt with Moses? Yes, even in ancient times there were others who chose to throw in their lot with the Israelites. Together they witnessed the splitting of the sea and together they walked safely across on dry ground.

Today’s Jewish and interfaith families reenact that ancient joining together at the Passover seder table where they retell those events. Retelling the story of our slavery with our loved ones around the seder table has always been the core of the Passover celebration.

Every generation before us has expanded the story with references to other times of slavery, added new customs and traditions. So, what’re you waiting for? It’s time to set the table.