Israel Independence Day (Yom HaAtzmaut)
Yom HaAtzmaut is Israel’s national holiday, marking the establishment of the state in 1948. It follows Memorial Day for Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of hostile acts, with a national torch-lighting ceremony marking the transition from mourning to celebration.[1][2]
Date and legal status
The Independence Day Law, 5709–1949, sets the holiday on 5 Iyar, or near that date when it would otherwise conflict with Shabbat. If 5 Iyar falls on Saturday, the holiday moves to 3 Iyar; if it falls on Friday, it moves to 4 Iyar; if it falls on Monday, it moves to 6 Iyar. The law designates it a public holiday and authorizes the prime minister to arrange necessary work and services.[1]
The Hebrew date can fall on different Gregorian dates each year. Independence Day is always observed the day after Memorial Day for Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of hostile acts, tying the celebration to the remembrance that precedes it.[2]
Origin and meaning
On 14 May 1948, corresponding to 5 Iyar that year, David Ben-Gurion read the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel in Tel Aviv and signed it with members of the Provisional State Council. The declaration came as the British Mandate ended. The holiday commemorates that founding event and Israel’s independence.[2]
The adjacent Memorial Day and Independence Day observances form a distinctive national sequence: remembrance comes first, then the official ceremony on the eve of Independence Day signals the start of the celebrations.[2][3]
Ceremonies and observances
The state torch-lighting ceremony takes place on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. It closes Memorial Day and opens Independence Day, with artistic performances and a flag-bearers’ display. The Knesset describes the ceremony as a long-standing annual event held since 1950.[3]
Celebrations also include outdoor performances and fireworks at city venues. On the holiday, the president hosts outstanding Israel Defense Forces soldiers, the International Bible Contest for Youth is held in Jerusalem, and the Israel Prize ceremony concludes the official events. Many army bases open to the public, and many synagogues hold festive prayers that include Hallel and a prayer for the State of Israel.[2]
Practical effects
Independence Day is a statutory public holiday, and an official Israeli government calendar describes it as a day off work. The law allows the prime minister to direct which labor and services continue, including their hours and arrangements, so the holiday does not mean every service follows the same schedule.[1][4]
The Knesset’s account documents public celebrations and official events. Check directly with the bank, shop, transport provider or venue you plan to use for its holiday hours or timetable.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
When is Yom HaAtzmaut celebrated?
It is set for 5 Iyar in the Hebrew calendar, with statutory adjustments if that date falls on Friday, Saturday or Monday. Its Gregorian date changes each year.[1]
Why does it follow Memorial Day?
Is it a day off work?
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Banks, shops and public transport providers set their own holiday hours and timetables, so check directly with them before making plans.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Independence Day (Yom HaAtzmaut) in Israel:
- Independence Day Law - 5709 (1949)- The Knesset
- Independence Day- The Knesset
- Israel Celebrates Independence Day- The Knesset
- APRIL 2023 | IYAR 5783- Government of Israel