About Bat & Bar Mitzvah

While the bat mitzvah girl can celebrate from her 12th birthday, some wait and celebrate on the girl's 13th birthday. In many Reform, Reconstructionist and Conservative synagogues Festive meals and lavish parties in honor of a girl.

In orthodox communities, the bat mitzvah is more often marked with a family celebration than a religious ritual. If an orthodox girl wants to celebrate her bat mitzvah by reading Torah or leading a prayer service.

Many people feel confused when invited to a bat mitzvah. They ask what present to buy, when to give the present, how to dress. It helps to think of the bat mitzvah as a special birthday  Any present that is appropriate for a 12 or 13 year old girl will also work for a bat mitzvah present (jewelry, books, gift certificates, music, clothes, picture frames. Dress for the religious service like you are going to a religious service and dress for the party according to whatever party is being held. It is best to bring the present to the party.