A bar mitzvah is a significant Jewish coming-of-age ceremony for boys, typically celebrated when they turn 13 years old. During the ceremony, the boy is called to the Torah (the Jewish sacred text) for the first time, marking his responsibilities as a Jewish adult. The event often involves a festive celebration with family and friends, and it symbolizes the boy's commitment to Jewish traditions and community. The equivalent ceremony for girls is called a bat mitzvah, celebrated at age 12.