Hawaii Jewish congregations will begin the eight-day observance of Passover next weekend. The traditional celebration includes a communal banquet at which ritual foods are served to symbolize the story of the first Passover 3,000 years ago, when the Hebrew people escaped slavery in Egypt.

The holiday commemorates the story in the Book of Exodus about their liberation and the birth of the Jews as a people.

Reservations are being taken for Seder celebrations.

» Aloha Jewish Chapel, Pearl Harbor Naval Station, 473-3971. The congregation will hold a Seder at 6 p.m. March 29 at Hale Koa Hotel, 2055 Kalia Road. There is no charge for active-duty military personnel of E5 rank and below and their families, but they are required to make reservations. The charge for other active-duty military and dependents is $30; for other attendees the cost is $60 for a turkey dinner and $61 for a vegetarian meal.

» Chabad of Hawaii, 410 Atkinson Drive, 735-8161. Seder banquets will be held at 6 p.m. March 29 and 30 at the Ala Moana Hotel. Reservations are required and seating is limited. Discounts are available for active-duty military personnel and students. Call for information.

» Temple Emanu-El, 2550 Pali Highway, 595-7521. The Temple Sisterhood will sponsor a second Seder at 5 p.m. March 30 at the Hale Koa Hotel. Tuesday is the deadline for reservations, which may be made by calling Alida Rutchick, 428-0092. Tickets for nonmembers are $75 for adults and $55 for children ages 5 to 12. The cost for enlisted military E5 and below is $45. Dinner choices are cinnamon chicken or vegan Israeli eggplant meals.