Yom-HaAtzmaut

Yom HaAtzma'ut (Israel) History

Yom Haazmaut (Hebrew: יום העצמאות)is Israel's Independence Day. Israel declared independence on May 14th, 1948. This was only a few hours before the British Mandate of Palestine was to draw to an end.

Yom Haazmaut is a public holiday in Israel. All commercial establishments are closed, apart from Restaurants, Cafes and Bars. Israelis celebrate Yom Haazmaut with an opening ceremony, comprising lighting of the Masuot (twelve torches, one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel). The honor of lighting each torch is given to outstanding Israelis, such as brave soldiers and policemen, scientists, artists, senior citizens and the like.

Yom Haazmaut always occurs the day after Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day to honor fallen soldiers and soldier victims of terrorists). There are typically firework displays at night, airplane displays and bands during the day. Israeli citizens spend Yom Haazmaut with family and friends, often in a Park, on a beach or at home. The Israel Prize is given in scientific fields to notable scientists, artists and people who made a lifetime contribution to the State of Israel.

Top 10 Facts for Yom-HaAtzmaut in 2026

• The upcoming observance of Yom HaAtzmaut in 2026 marks the 78th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, which was officially proclaimed by David Ben-Gurion on May 14, 1948.
• The holiday begins with a dramatic emotional shift at sundown, transitioning immediately from the solemn mourning of Yom HaZikaron, the national memorial day, to the vibrant celebrations of independence.
• A central highlight of the evening festivities is the official torch-lighting ceremony held on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, where twelve torches are lit by individuals who have made significant contributions to society, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
• One of the most ubiquitous modern street traditions involves children and teenagers playfully spraying passersby with cans of white foam or shaving cream, a custom that has become synonymous with the holiday’s public joy.
• During the daytime, the Israeli Air Force performs a massive nationwide flyover known as the Metas, featuring various fighter jets and transport planes that can be seen from almost every major city and coastline.
• The traditional culinary centerpiece of the day is the Mangal, an outdoor barbecue where families and friends gather in national parks and forests to grill meats and vegetables.
• The day concludes with the presentation of the Israel Prize, the nation's highest honor, awarded to individuals for their exceptional achievements in fields such as science, literature, and the arts.
• Every year, the holiday serves as the backdrop for the International Bible Contest, a globally televised competition where Jewish youth from around the world test their knowledge of the Tanakh.
• Historically, the name "Israel" was chosen for the new state just days before its founding, after other proposed names like "Judea," "Zion," and "Ever" were ultimately rejected by the provisional government.
• Many religious communities mark the occasion by reciting the Hallel, a series of psalms of praise, and incorporating special prayers of thanksgiving for the modern "miracle" of sovereignty.

In the News and Trending in the US for Yom-HaAtzmaut

Top things to do in the US for Yom HaAtzma'ut

• Attend a Yom Haazmaut Party, held at many local Israeli/Jewish Communities on the Eve of Yom Haazmaut. Typically, Israeli food is served, followed by a fireworks display. A live broadcast of the Yom Haazmaut ceremony from Har Herzl, Jerusalem may be watched and culminates in the singing of the Hatikvah, the Israeli National Anthem.
• Attend a lecture on the connection between Jews, Israel and the Bible. Yeshivah University holds many public lectures on this topic.
• Attend a Yom Haazmaut Concert. There are many venues for Yom Haazmaut concerts including popular ones at New York City and Stamford (CT).
• Take part or view the Bible Quiz (Chidon Hatanach)