Independence Day (Israel) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Independence Dayיום העצמאות Yom Ha'atzmaut |
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An air display in Tel Aviv on Israel's 61st Independence Day
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| Observed by | Israelis |
| Celebrations | Displaying the flag of Israel and other national symbols, family meetings, fireworks, barbecues, picnics, concerts |
| Observances | Mount Herzl ceremony, Ceremonial lighting of the twelve torches, International Bible Contest, Israel Prize ceremony. |
| Date | 5 Iyar (Hebrew calendar) |
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Independence Day (Hebrew: יום העצמאות Yom Ha'atzmaut) is a very special day in Israel. It means "Day of Independence." This holiday celebrates when Israel became an independent country in 1948.
Israel declared its independence on May 14, 1948. This date matched the 5th day of Iyar on the Hebrew calendar. So, Israelis celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut on 5 Iyar each year. Sometimes, the date changes slightly to avoid religious conflicts. The day before Independence Day is Yom Hazikaron. This is a day to remember fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism. In the Hebrew calendar, days start in the evening.
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Celebrating Israel's Independence
Independence Day is a time for both official events and fun family gatherings. People celebrate all over Israel.
Official Ceremonies and Events
A big official ceremony happens every year on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. This takes place on the evening of Independence Day. The speaker of the Knesset (Israel's parliament) gives a speech. There are also artistic performances.
A special part of the ceremony is the lighting of twelve torches. Each torch represents one of the ancient Tribes of Israel. Every year, twelve Israeli citizens are chosen to light these torches. These people have done great things for their community.
Many cities also hold outdoor concerts in their main squares. Famous Israeli singers perform. The night often ends with amazing fireworks shows. Streets around the squares are closed so people can sing and dance freely.
Family Fun and Traditions
Israeli families love to celebrate Independence Day with picnics and barbecues. You will see Israeli flags everywhere! People decorate their balconies with flags. Small flags are also put on car windows. Some people keep their flags up until after Yom Yerushalayim.
On TV, you can watch the official ceremonies live. Channels also show classic Israeli movies and funny skits. It's a day for everyone to feel proud and celebrate together.
Images for kids
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David Ben-Gurion proclaiming independence beneath a large portrait of Theodor Herzl, founder of modern Zionism.
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Independence Day celebrations in Tel Aviv's Rabin Square, 2008
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Israeli Air Force Independence Day flypast, 2011
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International Bible Contest, 1985
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Visitors around an IDF Caterpillar D9 at the Israel Defense Forces exhibition at Yad La-Shiryon, Independence Day 2012.
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Hallel recited at the Day to Praise Israel Independence Day event in Jerusalem, 23 April 2015
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Families celebrating in Israel Defense Force fair in Sderot, 2019.
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IAF F-35I Adir in Independence Day 2019 flypast.
See also
In Spanish: Yom Ha'atzmaut para niños
