Observe Yom Kippur 2012 in the South Bay

Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture, is referred to as the "Day of Atonement," and tradition calls for devotees of Judaism to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of their sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (Sept. 16 to Sept. 26 in 2012), which began with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

According to the Jewish calendar, a holiday begins at sunset on the previous night. On Sept. 25, observing Jews will celebrate Yom Kippur at 7 p.m.

Here are some activities in the South Bay:  

• Congregation Beth Am will host on Tuesday, September 25, 8 p.m. a Yom Kippur Kol Nidre (the "all vows") at the Flint Center, De Anza College, Cupertino  On Wednesday, Sept. 26, Congregation Beth Am continue its services at the Flint Center with a morning service at 9:30 a.m., music and meditation at 2:45 p.m., an afternoon service at 3:30 p.m. and Yizkor and concluding service at 5:30 p.m. There will also be a food can collection as part of the teens' "High Holy Days" Food Drive. The food will help the East Palo Alto Ecumenical Hunger Program.

• Congregation Etz Chayim at 4161 Alma Street, Palo Alto hosts a "Break-the-Fast" potluck dinner at the end of Yom Kippur for Jewish singles ages 45ish to 65ish. Sept. 26, 2012 at 7 p.m. Cost is $10.00 in advance or $15.00 at the door. Come join us. To RSVP follow these instructions.

Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a Jewish month, nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively the day before—once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services. Then, for almost 25 hours, the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking and other restrictions.

After the fast, another festive feast, or a yom tov, is customary.

To celebrate the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. But there are a few staples that usually make their way onto the table. Try a honey cake, noodle kugel or brisket.

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