Israel's Independence Day is celebrated on the 5th of the Hebrew month of Iyar. In 1948, this day coincided with May 14th, but Israel is a Jewish state so holidays are linked to their Hebrew date.
Independence Day, or Yom HaAtzmaut in Hebrew, is a day generally celebrated with ceremonies, concerts, sing-alongs, outings, nature, and traditional barbecues. And, of course, traffic jams! Any visitor who has been in Israel on Yom HaAtzmaut has felt the special joy in the air, a celebration of Jewish homecoming after almost 2000 years of wandering.
Unfortunately, this year we are in lockdown due to the coronavirus. The traditional air force flyover is much smaller, and dedicated to the medical professionals in the front lines fighting the virus. Tourism is non existent. The streets are empty. Everyone is staying home.
Many of you planned to visit Israel this year and had to cancel your trip. I, who am blessed to live in this country, miss seeing you here! Along with a few other guides, I have put together a video of highlights to bring Israel to you, in your homes. The music is by a fantastic hazzan, her own composition.
I hope you enjoy this video. Yom HaAtzmaut Sameach, Happy 72nd birthday, Israel!
