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Israeli National Holidays

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Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut are Israel’s national holidays commemorating the lives lost in the fight for freedom and the day celebrating their independence.

israeli flag

The modern State of Israel, celebrating its 76th year in 2024, was founded in 1948 and a national holiday was established to celebrate the end of British rule. In 1963, the State of Israel created a national memorial day in memory of all those who have died defending the country from 1860 to the present. The choice to observe Memorial Day just before celebrating Independence Day is a symbolic gesture that is meant to remind people of the very high “cost” of statehood.

Yom HaZikaron: Begins at sunset, April 29 // Observed April 30, 2025

Yom HaAtzmaut: Begins at sunset, April 30 // Observed May 1, 2025

Join the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto for a fun, family-friendly gathering to celebrate Israel turning 77. This year’s theme, “We Are All Superheroes,” invites the community to discover our superpowers featuring crafts, games, Israeli music, tasty food and activities for all ages. For more information and to register, click here.