All About Yom Hazikkaron and Yom Ha’atzma’ut

Yom Hazikkaron (Memorial Day) and Yom Ha’atzma’ut (Independence Day)

Pronunciation: Yohm Hah-zee-kah-rone and Yohm Hah-ah-tz-mah-oot

Dates: Yom Hazikkaron begins Sunday evening, May 12, and ends Monday evening, May 13; it immediately leads into Yom Ha’atzma’ut.

What They’re About

This 48-hour period begins with a somber atmosphere as Israelis remember those who died in battle defending Israel and in terror attacks around the world. This year these days will take on a heavier significance since the October 7 attacks. As military service is mandatory for all Israelis and Israel is a tiny country (measuring 8,630 sq. miles), everyone has a sibling, parent, friend, cousin, or neighbor who has died serving in the Israel Defense Forces or in a terror attack. The somber mood transitions into celebration as we connect with the reason for this sacrifice—the existence of a Jewish homeland that serves as a beacon of protection and belonging for the global Jewish community.

Special Foods

Families, army units, and friends get together to have special meals. On Independence Day, you will see many having barbecues in the parks around the country. In the United States, you will see communities putting out falafel, hummus, and pita.

Greetings

On Independence Day, people say, “Chag sameach.”

Activities

Yom Hazikkaron begins with special programs with speakers and somber music. Victims and families of victims speak about the impact that their loss has had on their lives. People light candles for the dead, wear blue and white for the Israeli flag, and gather to share memories. A special siren sounds in the evening. The entire country stops. People who are driving get out of their cars and stand for a two-minute siren in the evening and morning. There is a transitional ceremony that turns mourning into celebration. There are musical events all over Israel with dancing, lots of food, and joyousness in the streets.