Daily Halacha: Can You Clap or Snap Fingers on Shabbat?

Is it permitted to clap hands on Shabbat?

According to halacha (Jewish law), one should not clap hands together, slap the hand against the thigh, or dance on Shabbat. This is because of a concern that someone might come to fix a musical instrument, which is not allowed.

However, there is room to be lenient when clapping in an unusual way. For example, tapping the back of one hand against the palm of the other is permitted even when it’s not for the sake of a mitzvah (a good deed or commandment).
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)

Is it permitted to snap fingers on Shabbat?

Snapping fingers is allowed if it's done to wake someone up or to calm a child. But snapping in a musical or rhythmic way, like you would with a song, is not permitted.
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)

Ach Tov VaChesed – Daily Halacha