The observance of the High Holidays, or "Days of Awe," are a very special event in the Kehila calendar that set the tone for the Community throughout the year. The Kehila and Rabbi David Shneyer hold High Holiday observances that are open to the greater Jewish community. Reb David and Kehila members participate on the bimah or in other capacities. The New Kehila Makhzor, compiled and edited by David Shneyer, is used as the prayer book for our services.

The High Holiday services are held on Erev Rosh Hashana and on the first day of Rosh Hashana. An outdoor service in Rock Creek Park is also held on the morning of the second day of Rosh Hashana. Services for Yom Kippur, on erev Yom Kippur and Yom Kippur day, are held at the high school. As part of our tradition of tzedakah, Kehila members and the larger community attending the Yom Kippur service bring donations of clothing which are delivered to a local social service program for the needy.

A separate special program and service is held for younger children on the first day of Rosh Hashana and on Yom Kippur day. A light break fast is provided for all immediately after the blowing of the final shofar on Yom Kippur.

Kehila members receive their tickets as part of their membership and are expected to volunteer their time to assist the High Holiday committee in various tasks. Non-members who attend the observance are requested to make a suggested donation.