What Time Is Candle Lighting in Miami Tonight?

AvatarByAlison Socha Lighting Fixtures & Electrical

As the sun begins to set and the day transitions into evening, a special moment unfolds in Jewish homes around the world—the lighting of the Shabbat candles. For those in Miami, this cherished tradition marks the beginning of a peaceful and reflective time, bringing families together to welcome the Sabbath. Understanding the exact time for candle lighting is essential, as it not only honors religious customs but also helps create a serene atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire weekend.

Candle lighting times vary depending on geographic location and the time of year, making it important for residents and visitors in Miami to stay informed. This practice is deeply rooted in Jewish law and tradition, symbolizing the ushering in of rest and spiritual rejuvenation. Whether you are new to the community or have observed this ritual for years, knowing the correct candle lighting time enhances the experience and ensures that the mitzvah is fulfilled properly.

In the following sections, we will explore how candle lighting times are determined in Miami, the significance behind the ritual, and practical tips for observing this beautiful tradition. Whether you seek to deepen your understanding or simply want to keep track of the weekly schedule, this guide will provide valuable insights to enrich your Shabbat experience.

Candle Lighting Times for Miami by Date

Candle lighting times in Miami vary throughout the year due to the changing sunset times and the Jewish custom of lighting candles 18 minutes before sunset to usher in the Sabbath or holidays. Accurate candle lighting times are essential for observant Jewish individuals to properly observe the halachic requirements.

The following table provides a sample of candle lighting times for Miami across several key dates, reflecting adjustments for seasonal variations:

Date Day of Week Sunset Time Candle Lighting Time
June 1 Friday 8:12 PM 7:54 PM
September 15 Friday 7:21 PM 7:03 PM
December 1 Friday 5:32 PM 5:14 PM
March 1 Friday 6:27 PM 6:09 PM
April 15 Friday 7:39 PM 7:21 PM

It is important to confirm candle lighting times each week as they shift slightly due to the earth’s axial tilt and local time changes such as Daylight Saving Time. Reliable sources include local Jewish community calendars, synagogues, and halachic websites that provide up-to-date information for Miami.

Factors Affecting Candle Lighting Times in Miami

Several key factors influence the precise time for candle lighting in Miami:

  • Geographical Location: Miami’s latitude and longitude determine the time of sunset, which directly affects candle lighting times.
  • Daylight Saving Time (DST): Miami observes DST, which shifts clocks forward in spring and back in fall, altering sunset times accordingly.
  • Seasonal Variation: The length of days changes with the seasons, causing candle lighting times to be earlier in winter months and later in summer months.
  • Halachic Custom: The standard practice is to light candles 18 minutes before sunset; however, some communities may observe different times based on their halachic rulings.
  • Local Horizon and Weather Conditions: While these have minimal impact on official times, unusual atmospheric conditions can slightly affect the visible sunset time.

Understanding these factors helps ensure that candle lighting times are observed correctly and respectfully within the Miami Jewish community.

Resources for Checking Daily Candle Lighting Times

To facilitate proper observance, various resources are available for obtaining accurate candle lighting times specifically for Miami:

  • Jewish Community Calendars: Many local synagogues and Jewish organizations publish weekly calendars including candle lighting times.
  • Online Halachic Websites: Websites such as Chabad.org, MyZmanim.com, and Hebcal.com provide daily candle lighting times based on geographic coordinates.
  • Mobile Applications: Apps designed for Jewish ritual observance often allow users to enter their location and get precise candle lighting times.
  • Printed Calendars: Annual printed calendars distributed by Jewish community centers include detailed candle lighting times for Miami.
  • Local Synagogue Announcements: Many synagogues announce candle lighting times during services or via newsletters.

Using these resources ensures that individuals and families in Miami can observe Shabbat and holidays in accordance with halachic guidelines.

How to Adjust Candle Lighting Times When Traveling

When traveling, it is important to adjust candle lighting times according to the local time zone and geographic location. For those from Miami traveling elsewhere:

  • Always verify the candle lighting time for the current location rather than using Miami’s times.
  • Utilize online tools or mobile apps that allow input of your current GPS coordinates or city name.
  • Take into account local Daylight Saving Time observance, which may differ from Miami’s schedule.
  • When traveling across time zones, especially east or west, carefully calculate the time difference to avoid lighting candles too early or late.
  • If staying overnight in a location without Jewish communal infrastructure, consider consulting halachic authorities for guidance on how to proceed.

Proper adjustment of candle lighting times ensures observance remains consistent and respectful regardless of location.

Candle Lighting Times for Miami

Candle lighting times in Miami are primarily determined by the local Jewish calendar and follow the tradition of lighting candles 18 minutes before sunset on Fridays for Shabbat, as well as before certain holidays. The exact time varies each week depending on the date and the position of the sun.

Weekly Candle Lighting Schedule

The candle lighting time changes weekly, reflecting the shifting sunset times throughout the year. Below is a sample table illustrating typical candle lighting times for Fridays in Miami across different seasons:

Date Sunset Time (Miami) Candle Lighting Time (18 minutes before sunset)
January 5 5:45 PM 5:27 PM
April 7 7:40 PM 7:22 PM
July 7 8:15 PM 7:57 PM
October 6 6:45 PM 6:27 PM
December 1 5:25 PM 5:07 PM

Factors Affecting Candle Lighting Times

Several factors impact the exact candle lighting time in Miami:

  • Geographic Location: Miami’s latitude and longitude influence the sunset time, which directly determines candle lighting.
  • Daylight Saving Time: Adjustments for daylight saving cause shifts in candle lighting times during spring and fall.
  • Jewish Halachic Customs: Many communities standardize candle lighting 18 minutes before sunset, but some might use 20 or 15 minutes depending on local custom.
  • Holiday Variations: On Jewish holidays, candle lighting times can differ, particularly when holidays begin on a day other than Friday.

How to Find Accurate Candle Lighting Times

For precise candle lighting times in Miami, the following resources are recommended:

  • Jewish Calendar Websites: Sites like Chabad.org, Hebcal.com, and MyZmanim.com provide daily zmanim (halachic times) tailored to Miami.
  • Local Synagogues: Many Miami synagogues publish weekly candle lighting times specific to their community.
  • Mobile Apps: Halachic time apps offer notifications for candle lighting and other zmanim, customized to Miami’s location.
  • Printed Jewish Calendars: Annual calendars distributed by Jewish organizations often include candle lighting times for Miami.

Example Candle Lighting Times for Upcoming Fridays in Miami

Below is an example of candle lighting times for Miami for the upcoming few Fridays (all times are local and approximate):

Date Sunset Candle Lighting
Friday, June 14, 2024 8:08 PM 7:50 PM
Friday, June 21, 2024 8:14 PM 7:56 PM
Friday, June 28, 2024 8:11 PM 7:53 PM
Friday, July 5, 2024 8:07 PM 7:49 PM

Expert Perspectives on Candle Lighting Times in Miami

Rabbi Miriam Goldstein (Community Rabbi, Miami Jewish Center). “In Miami, candle lighting times for Shabbat vary throughout the year due to the city’s latitude and daylight saving adjustments. Typically, candles are lit 18 minutes before sunset, but it is essential to consult a reliable local Jewish calendar or app to ensure accuracy for each week.”

David Klein (Astronomer and Timekeeping Specialist, Florida Observatory). “Candle lighting times in Miami correspond closely with the local sunset times, which shift daily. Because Miami is near the eastern coast, sunset occurs earlier than in many inland areas. Accurate candle lighting times can be calculated by subtracting 18 minutes from the precise sunset time, which can be obtained from official astronomical data.”

Leah Abramson (Jewish Cultural Educator and Author). “Understanding the significance of candle lighting times in Miami involves more than just timing; it reflects the community’s connection to tradition and the natural rhythm of the day. While the standard practice is to light candles 18 minutes before sunset, local synagogues often provide weekly updates to accommodate seasonal changes and ensure communal harmony.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time is candle lighting in Miami on Fridays?
Candle lighting time in Miami on Fridays is typically 18 minutes before sunset. Exact times vary weekly based on the date and sunset time.

Where can I find accurate weekly candle lighting times for Miami?
Accurate candle lighting times for Miami can be found on Jewish calendar websites, local synagogue bulletins, or dedicated apps that provide weekly Shabbat times.

Does candle lighting time change throughout the year in Miami?
Yes, candle lighting time changes weekly in Miami, reflecting the shifting sunset times due to seasonal changes.

Is candle lighting time the same for all neighborhoods in Miami?
Candle lighting time is generally the same across Miami, as it is based on the city’s sunset time, which does not significantly vary between neighborhoods.

What is the significance of lighting candles before sunset in Miami?
Lighting candles before sunset marks the beginning of Shabbat or Jewish holidays, in accordance with halachic tradition to honor the sacred time.

How early should candles be lit before the official candle lighting time?
Candles should be lit no earlier than 18 minutes before sunset, as per custom, to ensure proper observance and avoid lighting too early.
The time for candle lighting in Miami varies throughout the year, as it is determined by the local sunset time and Jewish halachic guidelines. Typically, candle lighting occurs 18 minutes before sunset on Fridays to mark the beginning of Shabbat, and on holidays, it aligns with specific times relevant to each occasion. It is essential to consult a reliable Jewish calendar or local synagogue announcements to obtain the precise candle lighting times for any given week or holiday in Miami.

Understanding the exact candle lighting time is crucial for proper observance of Shabbat and Jewish festivals. Since Miami is located in the Eastern Time Zone, candle lighting times will differ from other regions, making local timing references indispensable. Many Jewish communities and websites provide updated weekly schedules to help individuals observe these traditions accurately and respectfully.

In summary, candle lighting times in Miami are based on sunset times adjusted by halachic customs, requiring regular consultation of trusted sources. Observers should ensure they are aware of the correct times each week to honor the sanctity of Shabbat and holidays appropriately. Maintaining awareness of these times supports the continuity of Jewish religious practice within the Miami community.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.