Can I build a sukkah on a balcony?
Yes, as long as the roof is open to the sky. Check that there is no permanent roof or overhang above, and that building rules and your neighbors allow it.
The sukkah
How to build and use a sukkah.
A sukkah is simpler than it looks. Choose a spot under the open sky, build walls, cover it with branches, and then eat, talk and welcome guests for seven days.
Step by step
Building a sukkah
- Choose the spot.Somewhere open to the sky: a yard, a rooftop or a balcony. It must not sit under a tree or a permanent roof.
- Build the walls.A sukkah generally needs at least three walls. They can be wood, cloth or any sturdy material, as long as they are firm enough to stand in a normal wind.
- Add the schach.Lay branches, bamboo or reeds across the top. The shade should be more than the sun, and ideally you can still see a few stars at night.
- Decorate it.Children love this part. Hang paper chains, fruit, and drawings. Make it somewhere you want to be.
- Use it.Make the blessing of leisheiv basukkah when you eat a meal with bread or cake, and use the sukkah as much as you can all week.
Sukkah meals
Eat, talk, stay awhile.
The best sukkah is the one with people in it. Shabbat and yom tov meals in the sukkah include Kiddush, challah dipped in honey, and a long conversation.
No sukkah of your own? Send us a note. We would love to seat you at ours.
FAQ
Sukkah questions people ask
What can I use for the roof?
Schach must be something that grew from the ground and was cut off, such as bamboo, reeds or wooden slats. It must not be metal or plastic, and it should give more shade than sun, ideally while still letting you see a few stars.
What if it rains?
You are not required to eat in the sukkah in heavy rain. Go inside and return when the rain stops.
Do we sleep in the sukkah?
The Chabad custom is to eat and spend time in the sukkah but not to sleep there. Other communities do sleep in it.
Should I ask a rabbi before building?
If you are unsure about the walls, roof or location, yes. Send us a note and we will connect you with someone who can help.
Need help?
Let's get your sukkah ready.
Questions about walls, schach or a balcony sukkah in Hadera? We are glad to help.
Let's stay in touch
Your next connection starts with hello.
Join our WhatsApp group for community updates, activities, and ways to take part.