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, and all things Hebrew. 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 books, videos, and activities below.
Read
Recommended for ages 2 to 3
When you think of Israel, you think of blue and white -- but Israel is really an entire rainbow, and this book has the pictures to prove it.
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
It all starts with a simple chair…and before you know it, the children in this story take off on a tour of Israel. The chair becomes a car, a train, a plane – and takes off for Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, and Haifa. When you’ve got an active imagination, there are no limits to where you can go!
Recommended for ages 3 to 6
Hang on to your hats -- Grover is in Israel! Hit all the hot tourist spots with this furry blue monster.
Recommended for ages 7 to 8
Once upon a time, a boy named David aimed his slingshot at a big spider web -- but the spider convinced him not to destroy the web. When he grew up, David became king -- and the spider became an important friend.
Watch
Grover’s Postcards from Israel Playlist via Shalom Sesame
Everyone’s pal, Grover, tours Israel and records video postcards of his journeys. Learn all about Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Jaffa and many other cities in these adorable, short, videos.
What is Yom Ha'atzmaut: Israel Independence Day via BimBam
This video is best for parents and older kids who are looking for an historical overview of Yom Ha’atzmaut.
Do
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.
More Israeli Food Your Kids Will Love!
Wave Flags
Image via Chai and Home
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 popsicle stick, or follow this tutorial for something a little bit more formal. You can also download a printable flag kit here.
Play Archaeologist
Archaeology is a hobby in Israel and you can fashion your own “dig” in your garden 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.
More
Yom Ha’atzmaut: Israel Independence Day via MyJewishLearning.com
April 24, 2019