04/14/2026
Jewish Cleveland's Annual Yom Ha'atzmaut Event Set for April 22
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland will host its annual Yom Ha’atzmaut event – a free community celebration of Israel’s Independence Day – on Wednesday, April 22 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm at B’nai Jeshurun Congregation (27501 Fairmount Blvd in Pepper Pike).
Guests will celebrate Israel’s independence with a joyful community gathering for all ages, free and open to the entire community. Inspired by the themes of joy (simcha), community (kehilla), and earth (adamah), the event will feature live Israeli music and dancing, hands-on cultural activities, a bustling Israeli-style marketplace (shuk), food available for purchase from Mendel’s Kosher BBQ, and opportunities to connect with organizations making an impact across Jewish Cleveland. With dedicated experiences for children, teens, and adults alike, the celebration offers a vibrant and meaningful way to honor the resilience, beauty, and spirit of Israel.
The Federation will also host its annual Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) that honors the legacy and sacrifice of Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror. This meaningful program will feature music and prayers to honor the lives of the ones we have lost. Guests are encouraged to follow Israeli tradition of wearing a white shirt. This ceremony will be held on Monday, April 20 at 7 pm at Congregation Shaarey Tikvah (26811 Fairmount Blvd in Beachwood).
“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,” said Mark Holz, Federation’s Overseas Connections Committee chair. “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.”
Registration is required to attend both events. For more information or to register for Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Hazikaron, please visit www.jewishcleveland.org.
