Yom HaZikaron Day of Remembrance

Yom HaZikaron is Israel's official remembrance day, enacted into law in 1963. In Israel, it is called Yom HaZikaron LeHalalei Ma'arakhot Yisrael ul'Nifge'ei Pe'ulot HaEivah, 'Memorial Day for the Fallen Soldiers of Israel and Victims of Terrorism’. Yom HaZikaron is dedicated to fallen soldiers and has also been extended to civilian victims of terrorism.

In Israel, the day is marked by a country-wide siren that marks the start of the commemoration at sunset. The siren lasts for one minute, during which Israelis stop everything, including driving, and stand in silence, commemorating the fallen and showing respect. All places of entertainment are closed and all broadcasting notes the solemnity of the day. The names and ranks of every soldier who died for Israel are displayed in a 24-hour television broadcast. 

A two-minute siren is sounded at 11 am the following morning, marking the start of official memorial ceremonies and private remembrance gatherings at each cemetery where soldiers are buried. 

In the United States, many Jewish communities hold ceremonies to commemorate Yom HaZikaron.  

Yom Ha'atzmaut Israel Independence Day 

Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948, which corresponded with the 5th of Iyar in that year on the Hebrew calendar. Yom Ha'atzmaut was therefore originally celebrated on that date. 

In Israel, an official ceremony is held every year on Mount Herzl, Jerusalem on the evening of Independence Day. The ceremony includes a speech by the speaker of the Knesset (the Israeli Parliament) and artistic performances. Many cities hold outdoor performances in city squares featuring Israeli singers and fireworks displays. Streets around the squares are closed to cars, allowing people to sing and dance in the streets.

In the United States and other countries around the world, Israel’s Independence Day is celebrated in a number of different ways, and not always on the exact day. Celebrations include community walks, parades, concerts, and a number of educational programs.