Israel celebrates many holidays, both religious and national. Here are a few of the popular holidays in Israel:
- Pesach: Passover is one of the most important religious holidays in Judaism. It is celebrated in the spring and is associated with the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. During the week of Passover, Jews hold solemn celebratory meals and read the Haggadah, which tells the history of the holiday.
- Rosh Hashanah: This is the Jewish New Year, which is celebrated in September or October. On this day, Jews hold services in synagogues, review their deeds, and prepare for the day of Yom Kippur.
- Yom Kippur: Yom Kippur, or Memorial Day, is the holiest day in Judaism. On this day, Jews fast and hold prayers, asking God for forgiveness for their sins.
- Sukkot: This holiday, also known as the Feast of the Shack, is celebrated in early autumn. Jews build sukkahs (huts) in the courtyards of their homes and spend time in them to remember the times of the Israelites’ wandering in the desert.
- Hanukkah: This is a Jewish secular holiday celebrated in December. For eight days, Jews light a Chanukiah (candle holder), one candle on the first day and add one each day to celebrate the miracle of the sacred oil in the Temple in Jerusalem.
- Independence Day (Yom Hatzmaut): This Israeli bank holidays is celebrated on 14 May (or 5 June in the Jewish calendar) and commemorates the day Israel declared independence in 1948. On this day, celebrations, parades and fireworks are held.
- Purim: Purim is another secular holiday that is celebrated with fun and costumes. It is celebrated in February or March and is associated with the story of the rescue of the Jews from the threat of extermination in Persia.
- Lag ba-Omer: This little-known holiday, which is celebrated in the spring, is a time of rest and celebration. Lag ba-Omer usually features outdoor activities such as bonfires and archery.
These are just a few examples of the holidays that are celebrated in Israel. Each has its own unique history and traditions, making Israel’s culture and society diverse and interesting.