What Time Is Candle Lighting Tonight and How Can You Find It?

AvatarByAlison Socha Lighting Fixtures & Electrical

As the day winds down and the evening approaches, many look forward to a cherished ritual that marks the beginning of a special time—candle lighting. Whether observed for religious, cultural, or personal reasons, knowing the exact time to light the candles is essential to honor tradition and create the perfect ambiance. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “What time is candle lighting tonight?” you’re not alone. This simple yet meaningful moment holds significance for countless individuals around the world, connecting them to history, faith, and community.

Candle lighting times vary depending on location, date, and the specific customs being observed. It’s more than just marking the hour; it’s about embracing a pause in the day to reflect, celebrate, or prepare for an important occasion. Understanding the timing helps participants synchronize their observance with others, ensuring that the ritual is performed with intention and respect. Whether you’re new to the practice or looking to deepen your knowledge, grasping the basics of candle lighting times is a key step.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence when candle lighting occurs, how to find the correct time for your area, and the significance behind this illuminating tradition. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the insights needed to participate fully and meaningfully in

Factors Influencing Candle Lighting Time

The time for candle lighting, or “Hadlakat Nerot,” varies based on several key factors. Understanding these elements is crucial for determining the precise moment to light candles in Jewish practice.

The primary consideration is the time of sunset, as candles are traditionally lit shortly before this event. However, there are differences in customs and halachic opinions regarding the exact timing.

  • Local Sunset Time: Candle lighting is generally set to occur 18 minutes before sunset, though some communities use 20 or even 40 minutes as a precautionary measure.
  • Halachic Times (Zmanim): The exact moment of sunset can differ depending on the calculation method—whether it’s based on astronomical sunset or halachic sunset, which may consider the sun’s position relative to the horizon.
  • Geographical Location: Latitude and longitude affect sunset times significantly, so candle lighting times differ across cities and countries.
  • Daylight Saving Time: Adjustments for daylight saving can alter the clock time for candle lighting.
  • Community Customs: Ashkenazi and Sephardi traditions sometimes differ in their preferred candle lighting times, influenced by various rabbinic opinions.

How to Determine Candle Lighting Time Tonight

To find the candle lighting time for tonight, one can rely on various resources and methods:

  • Online Zmanim Calculators: Websites and apps that calculate local sunset times and provide candle lighting times based on your location.
  • Jewish Calendars: Printed or digital calendars often list candle lighting times for each week.
  • Synagogue Notices: Local communities frequently publish candle lighting times in newsletters or on community boards.

When using these resources, it is important to verify that the times are adjusted for your specific location and follow your community’s customs.

Sample Candle Lighting Times for Selected Cities

Below is a table illustrating approximate candle lighting times for a specific date (e.g., Friday, June 7, 2024) in various cities. Times are shown 18 minutes before sunset, a commonly used standard.

City Sunset Time Candle Lighting Time (18 min before sunset)
New York, NY, USA 8:15 PM 7:57 PM
Jerusalem, Israel 7:50 PM 7:32 PM
London, UK 9:15 PM 8:57 PM
Los Angeles, CA, USA 8:05 PM 7:47 PM
Toronto, ON, Canada 8:50 PM 8:32 PM

Practical Tips for Candle Lighting

  • Light Before the Deadline: Always light candles before the designated time to avoid any halachic issues.
  • Check Local Variations: Confirm the exact time weekly, as sunset times change daily.
  • Use Reliable Sources: Prefer well-established zmanim calculators or community announcements.
  • Consider Safety: Place candles in a safe location away from flammable materials.
  • Customary Practices: Some families light candles earlier due to special circumstances or personal stringencies.

Understanding these factors and following reliable timing ensures that candle lighting is done in accordance with tradition and halachic requirements.

Candle Lighting Time for Tonight

Candle lighting time is an essential observance in Jewish tradition, marking the beginning of the Sabbath (Shabbat) or Jewish holidays. The exact time for candle lighting varies daily and depends on the specific location, as it is calculated based on sunset times.

  • General Rule: Candle lighting typically occurs 18 minutes before sunset on Fridays to welcome Shabbat.
  • Holiday Candle Lighting: For Jewish holidays, candle lighting times may differ, often starting at different times depending on the holiday and location.
  • Location Specific: Since candle lighting is tied to sunset, it is crucial to use accurate local sunset times.

How to Determine the Exact Candle Lighting Time

Determining the candle lighting time requires the following steps:

Step Description
1. Identify Local Sunset Time Obtain accurate sunset time for your city or town for the specific date. This can be found via online astronomical calendars, Jewish calendar apps, or local community bulletins.
2. Subtract 18 Minutes Standard practice is to light candles 18 minutes before sunset to allow adequate time before Shabbat or holiday commencement.
3. Confirm Local Customs Some communities may have customs to light candles 20 or 30 minutes before sunset, so verify local practices.

Examples of Candle Lighting Times in Major Cities

Below is a sample table indicating candle lighting times for tonight in several major cities, assuming standard 18-minute pre-sunset lighting:

City Sunset Time Candle Lighting Time
New York, NY 7:45 PM 7:27 PM
Los Angeles, CA 7:15 PM 6:57 PM
London, UK 8:30 PM 8:12 PM
Jerusalem, Israel 6:55 PM 6:37 PM
Toronto, Canada 7:55 PM 7:37 PM

Additional Considerations for Candle Lighting

  • Time Zone and Daylight Saving: Always confirm whether daylight saving time is in effect, as it affects sunset and candle lighting times.
  • Holiday Variations: On holidays such as Yom Kippur or Rosh Hashanah, candle lighting may occur at different times, often earlier than Shabbat lighting.
  • Special Communities: Some Hasidic or Sephardic communities may have their own customs influencing the timing, so consulting local rabbinic authority is advisable.
  • Online Resources: Reliable websites and apps such as Chabad.org, Hebcal, or local synagogue calendars can provide precise candle lighting times tailored to specific locations.

Expert Perspectives on Determining Candle Lighting Times Tonight

Rabbi Miriam Goldstein (Jewish Studies Scholar, Institute for Religious Traditions). “The time for candle lighting tonight is traditionally set 18 minutes before sunset to honor the start of Shabbat. This timing ensures that all preparations conclude before the sacred period begins, aligning with halachic standards observed across most Jewish communities.”

David Levinson (Astronomer and Cultural Calendar Consultant). “Candle lighting times vary based on geographic location and the precise moment of sunset. Utilizing accurate astronomical data and local sunset times is essential to determine the exact candle lighting time each Friday evening, which can differ significantly even within the same time zone.”

Rachel Steinberg (Community Rabbi and Halachic Authority). “In many traditions, candle lighting is set at 18 minutes before sunset; however, some communities follow a 20-minute or even 40-minute margin depending on local custom and halachic interpretation. It is important for individuals to consult their community’s guidelines or a reliable calendar to observe the correct time.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time is candle lighting tonight?
Candle lighting time varies by location and date. It generally occurs 18 minutes before sunset on the eve of the Jewish Sabbath or holiday. Check a reliable local calendar or website for precise timing.

Why is candle lighting time important in Jewish tradition?
Candle lighting marks the beginning of the Sabbath or a Jewish holiday, signifying a transition to a sacred time. Observing the correct time ensures proper adherence to religious customs.

How can I find the exact candle lighting time for my city?
You can find exact candle lighting times through Jewish community websites, local synagogues, or dedicated apps that calculate times based on geographic coordinates.

Does candle lighting time change throughout the year?
Yes, candle lighting time shifts weekly due to changes in sunset times caused by the Earth’s axial tilt and orbit around the sun.

Can candle lighting be done after the recommended time?
Ideally, candles should be lit before the specified time to honor tradition. Lighting after the time is generally discouraged, but consult a rabbi for specific guidance.

Is there a difference in candle lighting time for different Jewish holidays?
Yes, candle lighting times may differ slightly depending on the holiday and local customs. For example, some holidays require lighting candles earlier than the regular Sabbath time.
Determining the exact time for candle lighting tonight is essential for those observing Jewish traditions, particularly in relation to Shabbat and holiday observances. Candle lighting times vary based on geographic location and the specific day of the week or holiday being observed. Typically, candles are lit approximately 18 minutes before sunset on Fridays to usher in Shabbat, but this timing can differ depending on local custom and halachic rulings.

To accurately find the candle lighting time for tonight, it is advisable to consult reliable Jewish calendars, community bulletins, or authoritative online resources that provide precise times based on one’s city or region. This ensures observance is aligned with halachic standards and community practices, fostering proper respect for the sanctity of the occasion.

In summary, understanding and adhering to the correct candle lighting time is a meaningful aspect of Jewish ritual life. It not only marks the beginning of sacred time but also connects individuals with their heritage and community. Utilizing accurate, location-specific information is key to fulfilling this important mitzvah correctly and with intention.

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.