Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles, is one of the most meaningful festivals in the Jewish calendar. Falling just days after Yom Kippur, it carries a message of renewal, gratitude, and divine protection. For generations, Jewish communities around the world have celebrated Sukkot by building temporary huts called sukkahs and by embracing the symbolism of the Four Species. This festival not only commemorates the Israelites’ journey through the desert after leaving Egypt but also reminds us of the enduring importance of faith and togetherness.
A Time of Gratitude and Reflection
At its core, Sukkot is about recognising the fragility of life and the need for spiritual grounding. The sukkah, often a simple hut with a roof of branches or leaves, symbolises both vulnerability and divine shelter. Living or eating within the sukkah is a physical reminder that material possessions are temporary, but faith, family, and community endure.
The Joy of the Harvest
Sukkot is also known as the Festival of Ingathering, marking the end of the harvest season. In ancient Israel, this was a time of great celebration, when farmers gathered their produce and thanked God for abundance. Even today, Sukkot continues to embody themes of joy, generosity, and hospitality, with communities welcoming friends, neighbours, and travellers into their sukkahs.
The Four Species
One of the unique rituals of Sukkot is the waving of the Arba Minim (Four Species): the lulav (palm), etrog (citron), hadassim (myrtle), and aravot (willow). Each species represents different aspects of the Jewish people, symbolising unity despite diversity. Together, they highlight the importance of community and collective spiritual strength.
Sukkot and Spiritual Protection
The sukkah itself symbolises the clouds of glory that protected the Israelites during their desert wanderings. Sitting under its leafy roof offers a reminder of divine protection and the importance of humility. This symbolism connects worshippers to a shared history of resilience and faith, making Sukkot not just a holiday of joy, but also one of profound spiritual meaning.
Sukkot 2025: A Historic Celebration in the UK
For the first time ever, Sukkot will be officially celebrated in the UK with a dedicated event at Unico Hotels in Margate. From 6 October to 16 October 2025, Unico Hotels will host a unique gathering where guests can experience the joy of Sukkot within a welcoming and kosher-certified environment.
This event is historic not only because it marks the UK’s first organised Sukkot festival but also because it offers Jewish families a chance to celebrate together in a coastal setting, blending tradition with modern hospitality.
Unlike standard reservations, booking for this event follows a different process. Guests must use the special booking links provided on the Unico Hotels homepage or the dedicated event booking pages. This ensures all arrangements meet kosher standards and are tailored specifically for the festival period.
Why Margate?
Margate, with its seaside charm and cultural vibrancy, provides the perfect backdrop for this historic first. Guests will not only experience the traditions of Sukkot but also enjoy the beauty of a British coastal holiday. The combination of spiritual depth and seaside relaxation creates a unique opportunity for Jewish families and individuals seeking both connection and renewal.
A Celebration of Faith and Community
Sukkot is about more than rituals; it’s about connection. Sharing meals under the sukkah, reciting prayers, and celebrating together creates bonds that last long after the festival ends. At Unico Hotels Margate, this sense of togetherness will be central, ensuring that the UK’s first Sukkot celebration is remembered as both joyful and deeply spiritual.