Yom Hazikaron

Yom Hazikaron (Begins) History

Yom HaZikaron, Israel's national remembrance day, honours the memories of soldiers and civilian victims of terrorism. This commemoration not only pays tribute to the lives lost in armed conflicts since the establishment of the State of Israel but also those who have been victims of acts of terror. A solemn day of national awareness, the observance intertwines prolifically with the overall Israeli ethos of ‘remembrance and resilience', urging citizens to reflect on the heavy sacrifices made for the country.

Historically, Yom HaZikaron has its roots firmly lodged in the aftermath of the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Over time, it was officially decreed as a national day of remembrance, securing a day prior to Yom HaAtzmaut, Israel's Independence Day. This was done to reflect upon the cost of freedom. For the UK audience, it is important to note that Yom HaZikaron gives an opportunity to understand the significant sacrifices made by Israelis for their homeland. Drawing possible parallels to the UK's Remembrance Day, it helps to foster a shared sentiment of honour and respect for fallen heroes.

Yom HaZikaron in the UK is observed within the Jewish community with solemnity and reverence. Synagogues across the country hold memorial services with traditional prayers and poignant ceremonies remembering the fallen. Such events may be of interest to those in the UK wishing to show solidarity or further their understanding of Israeli culture. As per the Hebrew calendar, Yom HaZikaron begins at sundown on the 4th day of the month of Iyar, which usually falls in late April or early May according to the Gregorian calendar used in the UK.

Facts about Yom HaZikaron

• The theme for Yom HaZikaron in 2025 was Together We Remember. In 2024 the theme was We Are One.
• Flags are flown at half-mast, places of entertainment are closed, and radio and television programming are dedicated solely to documentaries, stories of heroic battles and lives lost in war or terrorist attacks.
• The Zionist Federation of Great Britain and Ireland and the United Jewish Israel Appeal are two more organizations that honour Yom HaZikaron in the UK. Normally, they hold a national ceremony in London attracting hundreds of attendees, many of whom are British Jews with links to people who have died in Israel.
• Many British politicians acknowledge Yom HaZikaron, showing support for the Israeli community in the UK, as well as in Israel. In the past, Prime Ministers and members of the Royal family have recognized the day.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Yom Hazikaron

Top things to do in the UK for Yom HaZikaron

• Wear a special Yizkor sticker if you have lost a loved one. These stickers are meant to honor and remember those soldiers killed in war.
• Attend the Jewish Community Centre (JW3): JW3 in London often hosts special memorial events or ceremonies to commemorate Yom HaZikaron. These may involve music, poetry, and storytelling to remember and honour the fallen Israeli soldiers.
• Attend Lectures or Discussions: These events could feature a talk by a historian, military veteran, or other knowledgeable speaker who can provide context and insights about the significance of Yom HaZikaron.

Yom HaZikaron references