Yom Ha-Atzmaut
Description
Yom HaAtzmaut is Israel’s Independence Day and the country’s main national holiday. The Declaration of Independence was signed on May 14 (5 Iyar), 1948.
During Yom HaAtzmaut, an official ceremony is held, including speeches by members of the Israeli government and other dignitaries, a ritual march of soldiers carrying the Israeli flag, and their formation into shapes such as a menorah or a six-pointed Star of David. Twelve torches are lit in honor of the twelve tribes of Israel, an honor bestowed upon Israeli citizens who have made significant contributions to the state’s development.
