Holidays FAQ – Yom Ha-Atzma’ut

Yom ha-Atzma’ut is the anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14th 1948.

It is observed on the Hebrew date of 5th Iyar, which is usually in May.

There are parties in Israel where it is a national holiday, and, to a lesser extent, in communities throughout the Diaspora.

Many Liberal Jews are conscious of the fact that there are two sides to the story of the establishment of the State of Israel. As such, our celebration of this event is sometimes a little muted and rather than simply partying, it can be used as an opportunity for study and reflection on the current situation in Israel/Palestine.

In the UK, Israeli foods such as falafel and houmous are often eaten.