Yom HaAtzmaut
Yom HaAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day, celebrates the establishment of the modern State of Israel on the 5th of Iyar, 1948, and follows right after the solemn Yom HaZikaron. In 2027 it runs from sundown on Tuesday, May 11 to nightfall on Wednesday, May 12. It is marked by evening ceremonies and torch-lighting, then flags, family barbecues, festivals, and prayers of thanksgiving.
Israeli Independence Day, the joyful celebration of the establishment of the modern State of Israel on the 5th of Iyar, 1948. It follows immediately after the solemn Yom HaZikaron, moving a nation from mourning to celebration in a single evening.
In a single evening a nation turns from mourning its fallen to celebrating its rebirth, grief and gratitude, back to back.
Why It Matters
Yom HaAtzmaut marks the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel on 14 May 1948 (5 Iyar 5708). For Jews around the world it represents the return to sovereignty in the ancestral homeland after nearly two thousand years, a hinge point of modern Jewish history. Its placement right after Yom HaZikaron is intentional: the freedom is inseparable from the sacrifice that secured it.
How It Is Observed
Celebrations begin in the evening with ceremonies, torch-lighting, music, and fireworks. The following day fills with flags, family barbecues (mangal), outdoor gatherings, and festivals. Special prayers of thanksgiving, including Hallel, are recited in many communities. Blue and white, the colors of the Israeli flag, are everywhere.
Rituals & Symbols
What to Say
Yom Ha'atzmaut Sameach, Happy Independence Day
"Yom Ha'atzmaut Sameach" "happy Independence Day" is the warm greeting for the celebration of Israel's founding.
“I will restore My people Israel. They shall rebuild ruined cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine... And I will plant them upon their soil, nevermore to be uprooted from the soil I have given them.”Amos 9:14-15
Common Questions
When is Yom HaAtzmaut in 2027?
Yom HaAtzmaut 2027 begins at sundown on Tuesday, May 11 and ends at nightfall on Wednesday, May 12.
What is Yom HaAtzmaut?
Israel's Independence Day, marking the establishment of the modern State of Israel in 1948.
Why does it follow a day of mourning?
It begins as Yom HaZikaron ends, joining remembrance of fallen soldiers directly to the joy of independence.
How is it celebrated?
With festive prayers, flags, cookouts, concerts, and fireworks, a national and communal celebration.
Sundown, Tue May 11 to nightfall, Wed May 12, 2027
Yom HaAtzmaut begins at sundown, immediately following Yom HaZikaron (Israel's Memorial Day), a deliberate shift from mourning to celebration.
Traditional Foods
- Barbecue (mangal)
- Falafel
- Israeli salad
- Sufganiyot
- Blue and white treats
Yom Ha'atzmaut Sameach, Happy Independence Day