Yom Ha'atzmaut, or Israel Independence Day commemorates the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948. In Israel, Jewish people celebrate the day with fireworks, barbecues, and public concerts. Outside Israel, Jewish communities host parties and gatherings to celebrate. Often, the focus of these events is on Israeli culture, everything from classic Israeli foods -- hummus, falafel, schnitzel, and shawarma -- to Israeli dance, Israeli music. People wear blue and white and wave Israeli flags. You can celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut too by trying Israeli foods, listening to music, and learning about Israel with the activities below.
Make Hummus
Sample the flavors of Israel by making some delicious hummus. Try dipping different veggies and crackers in your hummus, spread it on a sandwich, or stir in roasted red peppers, spinach, or chocolate—yes, chocolate—for dessert hummus.
Wave Flags
Your family can make your own Israeli flags to wave or put on your own parade. Decorate construction paper or felt with stamps, ink, and markers and attach to a chopstick.
Play Archeologist
Archaeology is a hobby in Israel and you can fashion your own “dig” in your backyard sandbox or by using a storage bin and some garden sand. Bury Israeli coins, “shards” from pottery, shells, rocks, etc. Put archaeologists’ tools in the table, such as sifters and paintbrushes--and dig.
Take A Pretend Vacation to Israel
Read a story like The Everywhere Chair and prepare for a trip with your kids. Talk about the places you would like to go and then enjoy an imagination vacation together using these ideas as a starting point.
March 24, 2021