Below are some of the most relevant Halachos as they pertain to Erev Pesach that falls out on Shabbos Kodesh (as it does this year, 5785). For the relevant Halachic zmanim as they pertain to any specific location please check your local shul or community calendar or visit www.MyZmanim.com. This is just a quick review to help familiarize the reader with these Halachos, and is for learning purposes only. For Halacha L’ma’she, as always, every individual should consult their own Rav.
Ta’anis Bechorim: This year, the Ta’anis Bechorim, the fast of the first-born, is observed on Thursday before Pesach. All first-born males should fast or participate in a Seudas Mitzvah, such as a siyum or a bris, where they may eat. If a Bechor did not fast or partake of Seudas Mitzvah on Thursday, he should do so on Friday.
Bedikas Chometz: Bedikas Chometz this year takes place on Thursday night, the eve of 13 Nisan. All Halachos of Bedikas Chometz that apply every year apply this year as well.
Mizmor Lesodah: Mizmor Lesodah is recited in Pesukei D’Zimrah on Thursday as well as on Friday. Lamnatzeach is also recited.
Burning Chometz: The Chometz should be burned on Friday morning, ideally before the end of the 5th halachic hour. Only when Erev Pesach is Shabbos, if the Chometz was not burned on Friday before the end of the 5th halachic hour, it may still be burned all day, until sunset.
Kol Chamira: At the burning of Chometz do not say “Kol Chamira” the proclamation that annuls all your Chometz. This year, it is said on Shabbos.
Selling Chometz: When selling Chometz this year, it should be done on Friday before the 6th halachic hour. Make sure to exclude the Chometz that will be eaten on Shabbos.
Permitted Activities on Friday: On Friday it is permitted to take haircuts, shave, cut nails, do laundry and work all day, as the restrictions of a regular Erev Pesach do not apply.
Preparing the Home: Covering counters, tables etc. with silver foil, tape etc. should be done on Friday before sunset.
