04/15/2026
Federation to Host Yom Ha'atzmaut Celebration of Israel's Independence
Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News
by Casey Couch
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland will host its annual Yom Ha’atzmaut event in celebration of Israel’s 78th Independence Day from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 22 at B’nai Jeshurun Congregation at 27501 Fairmount Blvd. in Pepper Pike.
Goldstein
Allyson Goldstein, Yom Ha’atzmaut co-chair, told the Cleveland Jewish News that the gathering, which is free and open to all ages, is inspired by themes of joy, simcha, community, kehillah and earth, or adamah.
“We are also celebrating Earth Day at Yom Ha’atzmaut because they fall on the same day,” Goldstein said. “So, there will also be activities that highlight the environment such as flower planting, flower crown making and exploring Israeli herbs.”
In addition to hands-on cultural activities that celebrate the Earth, the event will feature many activities that highlight Israel’s culture as well as the local Jewish community, such as an Israeli-style marketplace, or shuk, food available for purchase from Mendel’s Kosher BBQ and opportunities to connect with organizations making an impact across Jewish Cleveland.
At the center of the celebration, Goldstein said, is Israel’s independence – especially important following the more solemn commemorations that take place during Yom Hashoah and Yom Hazikaron.
“By coming together to honor those who gave their lives in service to Israel, and then celebrating the independence made possible by the people who sacrificed, it’s a powerful moment showing Jewish Cleveland’s unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel,” Goldstein said.
A highlight of the event will be live Israeli music and dancing, which Goldstein said is a great way to bring people together and also celebrate and highlight Israel’s culture.
“It’s one of the many ways of celebrating joy and community,” she added.
Children and families are encouraged to attend, with face painting, a PJ Library craft station, flag making and an “I Spy” adventure around the building. Teens will have their own allotted hangout space with games and activities, while adults can take part in wine tasting, a leather workshop and a short film screening.
“As a community, we are honored to come together to mark both Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut – first in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude, and then in celebration of Israel’s resilience, spirit, and independence,” Mark Holz, Federation’s overseas connections committee chair, said in a news release. “These meaningful observances give us the opportunity to strengthen our connection to one another and to Israel. We invite the entire community to join us for these special gatherings.”
The event is free, but registration is required.
To register, visit jewishcleveland.org.
