Yom Hazikaron and Yom Haatzmaut

The month of Iyar is a most moving time to be in Israel and truly feel a part of this great country. No matter what your politics are-being here and experiencing both Memorial Day and Independence Day are truly unforgettable. This is not Memorial Day or the 4th of July-this is really something indescribable.

Yom Hazikaron begins this evening with a siren at 8 PM. Be aware that stores and restaurants and other forms of entertainment are not open-everything closes by 7 PM The country comes together in silence at 8 PM with a one minute siren. There are gatherings in every neighborhood and the main ceremony is at the kotel. If you plan to go to the kotel you must be there before 7 PM to get through security. You can visit the kotel later in the evening and observe the soldiers guarding the torch lit in memory of those who were killed in battle and in terror attacks.
There will be another siren on Monday morning at 11 AM. The main ceremony will take place at Mt. Herzl, with other ceremonies around the country. If you are planning to go to Mt. Herzl plan to be there early, bring water and a hat avoid bringing a large bag so that you won't have a problem as security is tight.
The transition between Yom Hazikaron and Yom Haatzmaut begins at 8 PM-reall a "mishiabud legeulah" feeling-as we experienced during Pesach. There is a main ceremony/extravangza at Mt. Herzl (tickets only) and many other celebrations throughout the city. (see below for a partial listing of happenings)
Yom Haatzmaut is nicknamed "Yom Hamangalim" as everyone is out picnicking and barbecuing in all of the parks. Of course the morning is spent watching or listening to the Chidon Tanach-and this year Prime Minister Netanyahu's son is one of the contestants.
You can certainly meander around Jerusalem and be a part of the Living Museum-this year taking place in Mamilla. Here Herzl speak in front of the house he stayed in!

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Chag Sameach to all!

Debra and Daniella