84% of British Jews attend Pesach seder as tradition unites community

More than four in five British Jews attended a Pesach seder in 2025, underlining the festival’s role as a central pillar of Jewish identity and community life in the UK, new research shows.

The study by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR), based on responses from over 4,800 adults, found that 84 percent took part in a seder last year – making it one of the most widely observed Jewish practices.

Only Chanukah candle lighting ranked higher, at 89 percent, while other festivals, such as Rosh Hashanah and Succot (50 percent) recorded lower participation.

Researchers said the findings highlight the unique reach of Pesach, which continues to engage Jews across all levels of observance. Participation remained high even among those identifying as secular or culturally Jewish, with rates still exceeding 50 percent.

Family life emerged as a key driver. Households with school-age children were especially likely to attend a seder, with participation rising to 93 percent, and even higher among families with children in Jewish schools.

Attendance was strong across all age groups, though slightly higher among younger adults – a pattern linked to those more likely to have children at home.

Unlike many other religious practices, the seder is typically held in the home, combining ritual, storytelling and shared meals – factors researchers say help explain its enduring popularity.

Globally, the UK’s participation rate compares favourably with other Jewish communities, though it remains below Israel, where 96 percent reported plans to attend a seder in 2022.

Jonathan Boyd, executive director of JPR, said the data provides broader insight into contemporary Jewish life.

“These data have immediate relevance to Pesach, but more generally help us understand how Jewish identity is built, sustained and evolving over time,” he said.

The report concludes that the Pesach seder’s blend of tradition, family and accessibility continues to make it one of the most powerful and widely shared expressions of Jewish life in the UK.