Tu B'Shevat

Today is Tu B’Shevat! Tu B’Shevat is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the New Year for Trees. According to an ancient tradition, people are not supposed to eat the fruit from any tree that is less than five years old. Tu B’Shevat is used as the universal day of measurement when each tree turns one year older.

To celebrate the New Year for Trees, people plant saplings and give thanks for spring, which is just around the corner. Another custom is to eat dishes made with the Seven Species (also known as the Shivat Haminim): wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.

Cook up a delicious dinner with lots of fresh vegetables, start a container garden in your kitchen, and make plans for the spring season in honor of Tu B’Shevat!