The Three Weeks represent a progression of increasingly intense mourning practices:
- The Three Weeks (July 2–July 15, 2026): Commences the mourning period. Traditional customs include refraining from hosting weddings, playing live music, and getting haircuts or shaving.
- The Nine Days (July 16–July 23, 2026): Beginning on the 1st of Av, mourning is intensified. During this time, it is customary to refrain from eating meat and drinking wine (except on Shabbat) and from wearing freshly laundered clothing.
- Tisha B’Av (July 22–July 23, 2026): Culminates on the 9th of Av, considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. It includes a 25-hour fast and the prohibition of bathing, wearing leather shoes, applying lotions, and marital relations.
You can find further details about these dates, the Book of Lamentations readings, and specific laws on the Chabad Three Weeks Guide or the Hebcal Tisha B’Av 2026 Page.