Yom HaAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day, is celebrated as the day of the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948. It is observed in the Hebrew month of Iyar on the Jewish calendar, which usually falls at the end of April or the beginning of May. On May 14, 1948, the soon-to-be Israeli Prime Minister David Ben Gurion declared the independence of the State of Israel.
Yom HaAtzmaut celebrations begin the evening before the holiday when Israelis organise outdoor concerts, parties, and barbecues, watch fireworks displays on the streets. People gather with friends and families the next day. Also on the day, teens take part in the country’s Torah championship, and the winner is awarded the Israel Prize which is the country’s highest honour. Also, the Prize is awarded to individuals who excel in their chosen field.
In the evening of the holiday, the people gather at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem for a ceremony. The celebrations include speeches and a parade of soldiers and it concludes with the lighting of 12 torches which represent the 12 Tribes of Israel.
How people celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut:
People usually host a party or a special meal to celebrate the day with friends and family.
