Yom Kippur 2012 in Athens, Ga.

Yom Kippur is, in short, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture. It is also referred to as the “Day of Atonement,” and the tradition is to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (Sept. 16 to Sept. 26 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. On Sept. 25, observation will begin at sunset.

In Athens, Yom Kippur will be observed at the Congregation Children of Israel, beginning at 8pm. At Hillel, services begin at 7:15pm, and while UGA students may attend for free, community members are asked to make a small donation. At Chabad House, services will begin at 7:15pm.

 Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a month on the Hebrew calendar, which is 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.

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