A day to celebrate Israel

Jewish Healdsburg’s May 2 community potluck Shabbat is a dual celebration: We’ll be honoring the sabbath and partying in the name of Israeli Independence.

The holiday, a national holiday in Israel, is called Yom Ha'atzmaut.

While the date of Israeli independence is accepted as May 14, 1948, technically the holiday is celebrated on the fifth day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, which can vary every year. Most of the time Yom Ha’atzmaut falls in late April or early May. This year, it’s formally celebrated from sundown April 30 until sundown May 1.

The day preceding Israel's Independence Day is Yom HaZikaron, which is dedicated to the memory of fallen Israeli soldiers and Israeli civilian victims of terrorism.

Celebrations for Yom Ha’atzmaut vary depending on where you are.

In Israel, the revelry is similar to what you might experience in the United States on July 4. There are fireworks. There are patriotic songs. There are generally outdoor parties in every city in the country. A special liturgy is used that includes the recitation of Hallel, Shema, Al HaNissim, and other prayers.

Israeli officials also hold an official ceremony every year on the night before. The ceremony unfolds on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, and it includes a speech by the speaker of the Israeli Parliament, artistic performances, and the ceremonial lighting of twelve torches, one for each of the Tribes of Israel. In keeping with this spirit, a dozen Israeli citizens who made significant contributions to Israeli society are invited to light the torches every year.

In the United States, many Jewish communities organize special celebrations, while some also incorporate traditional Israeli food, music, and dance.

Jewish Healdsburg’s Yom Ha’atzmaut festivities will be memorable. Our group will sing songs and there’ll be a bonfire. Our host was planning to set up a zipline for kids. There even was talk of drinking arak, a popular alcoholic beverage throughout the Middle East.

One thing is certain: The place will be teeming with decorations, including the Israeli flag. Yom Ha'atzmaut Sameach to all!