Here in Israel there’s a good chance we may be spending the Passover seder with family and friends this year. That might not be the case elsewhere around the world, but whether you’re celebrating in person or socially distanced, it’s still nice to give a present for the holidays.
Any of these 11 Israel-themed gifts should do. We’ve got one to please just about every host (or even yourself) this holiday.
The blue paisley pattern is timeless, and just adult enough to gift to newlyweds taking their first stab at Passover seder hosting. Plus, it sure beats the heck out of wrapping your afikomen in a spare napkin.
This heirloom-worthy gift is made in an ethical all-women workshop in Jerusalem. What more could you ask for?
2. A wine journal to rate all 4 cups
As if you needed any more excuses to knock back a glass of wine (or four) on Passover, now you can journal your impressions of them in a guided and constructive way.
A great gift for any wine aficionado, especially in this day and age when Manischewitz is being replaced by world-class Israeli wines. It’s also the perfect excuse to go scouring the aisles for new boutique Israeli wines you haven’t yet tried. After all, this thing isn’t going to fill out itself.
These little painted ceramic dishes will delight any recipient who’s ever had to try and figure out which dish will get stained the least from the spicy purplish red horseradish that’s passed around the seder table, or “What the heck kind of dish is best for saltwater?” (a cup, a bowl, who knows?). Kepton display in the china cabinet all year long, these can be finally brought out of the shadows to bask in the spotlight come seder night.
An appropriate gift for everyone after the last year. We survived pharaoh, we’ll survive this. Indeed we will. This handmade trivet is an original design by Barbara Shaw and should bring a smile to anyone who receives it this Passover. The trivet was created and printed in Jerusalem.
Everyone loves to receive jewelry, right? Gift a unique handmade necklace made from ancient Roman glass that’s been excavated from archaeological sites in Israel. Designed by artist Efrat Saada-Limor who lives in Beit-Guvrin, the sterling silver pendant is 18 inches long.
Good for anytime of the year, this works especially well on Passover when that overworked hostess or family member could use a special little treat.
6. A little piece of the Dead Sea for the host who’s washed too many dishes
What’s the downside of creating a beautiful elaborate holiday feast? Dishes, of course!
Hand cream rich with vitamins and minerals from the Dead Sea makes dry dishpan hands into happier ones, and you get to support an Israeli brand while you’re at it!
Made more for Friday night kiddush, this wine fountain with eight kiddush cups is perfect for a little Passover fun – especially these days when sharing a cup isn’t quite so appealing. The equivalent of a chocolate fountain for wine, but in Jerusalem-themed pewter, this centerpiece will be the talk of the seder table each year to anyone lucky enough to receive it.
8. A Miriam cup
Miriam’s integral role in the Exodus story makes many people believe that she too should have a place at the Passover seder table. This beautiful wooden cup is designed by Jerusalem artist Yair Emanuel, and includes a matching plate.
9. Ancient blend of incense to set the mood
Ancient Jerusalem is said to have been filled with the scent of spices used as incense during ritual offerings at the Holy Temple. With this spice kit– which includes clove, galbanum, frankincense, myrrh, cassia, spikenard, clove and cinnamon –you or your giftee can feel what this must have smelled like in the most visceral way.
10. A book on haroset from someone who’s spent a lifetime studying it
Ever wondered about the origins and nuances of the seder plate’s most delicious item? Well, then maybe you should read a book written by an expert on the subject.
Digest this volume by Tel Aviv University’s Susan Weingarten, an expert in what ancient peoples ate, to get all the deets on this sweet dish that’s meant to represent brick and mortar. Bonus recipes included will inspire you to grace your table with versions from across the globe.
Get into the mood of the holidays with an upright matzah plate shaped like the pyramids of Egypt. Created by Hod Hasharon company, Artori Design, the holder comes in either gold or silver. The upright design makes a great space saver – a vital requirement for Passover tables, which are usually heaving with food.
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