One should use the time before Maariv to recite Tehillim.
Candles must not be waxed into place, nor may the wicks be twisted to facilitate their lighting. When necessary, one may remove the wax from the previous night with a knife. It is best that one removes it in a way that it falls directly into the bin.
On the second night, the candles should be kindled with a pre-existing flame, and not before Tzeis Hakochavim (6:30pm).
Tasks and preparations required for the second day of Yom Tov should not be performed before this time.
The Brochos are L’Hadlik Ner Shel Yom Hazikaron followed by Shehecheyanu. Since there is an argument whether Shehecheyanu is recited on the second night of Rosh Hashana, the person lighting candles ideally wears a new garment and has in mind both Yom-Tov and the new garment when reciting Shehecheyanu. Alternatively, the new fruit that will be eaten after Kiddush should be placed on the table, and one should have it in mind when reciting Shehecheyanu. In the absence of this, one still recites Shehecheyanu.
Before making Kiddush, new fruit should be placed on the table. When reciting Shehecheyanu, one should look at the new fruit, and have in mind both Yom-Tov and the new fruit. If one doesn’t have new fruit, he still recites Shehecheyanu.
At least a K’zayis (29 grams) of new fruit is eaten immediately after Kiddush, before washing for Challah. One recites Borei Pri Ha’etz, but not Shehecheyanu, as this was already recited at Kiddush.
One should minimize the time between Kiddush and Challah.
Before washing, a Brocho Acharona is said on the fruit, but not on the wine.
