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Yom HaAtzmaut

National holiday on the fifth day of Iyar to commemorate the Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel in 1948.

Tuesday

May 2027

Last updated February 11, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFifth day of Iyar

OBSERVED INIsrael

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYJewish

ORIGIN

Enacted Law

FOUNDING ENTITY

Knesset of the State of Israel

FIRST OBSERVED

1949

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

On March 14, 1949, the Knesset enacted the Independence Day Law, 5709–1949, proclaiming the fifth day of Iyar as Israel's Independence Day to be celebrated annually as a national holiday.

View Statutevia m.knesset.gov.il

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Hooray! The jubilant day of Yom HaAtzmaut is approaching on May 12! This festive day marks Israel's declaration of independence in 1948 which is observed with vibrant celebrations all over the world. The festivities include dancing, singing, and of course, the ceremonious lighting of twelve torches which signify the Tribes of Israel. From the cheerful parades to the exciting air shows, Yom HaAtzmaut is the day when we come together to rejoice the strength, the resilience, and indeed, the very existence of Israel. Join us as we delve into the exhilarating spirit of Israel's Independence Day!

TIMELINE

Yom HaAtzmaut Timeline

Israel's Declaration of Independence

On May 14, 1948, the State of Israel is proclaimed as an independent nation, marking the official birth of the country.

First Yom HaAtzmaut Celebration

The Knesset passes law to celebrate independence on 5th day of Iyar, establishing Yom HaAtzmaut as a national holiday.

Six-Day War Victory

Yom HaAtzmaut gains added significance after Israel’s victory in the Six-Day War, reaffirming the nation’s strength and resilience.

Peace with Egypt

The 1978 Yom HaAtzmaut celebration was marked by the historic signing of the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt.

50th Anniversary Celebration

Enormous celebrations across Israel marked the 50th anniversary of the country's independence on Yom HaAtzmaut.

Pandemic Impact

Despite the pandemic, Israelis found ways to celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut while respecting health restrictions, showcasing their spirit of resilience.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut

Plan a blue and white party

Capture the essence of the Israeli flag by hosting a blue-and-white themed party! Encourage guests to dress in blue and white, decorate the venue with blue and white balloons, streamers, and tablecloths, and serve traditional Israeli snacks.

PERFORM

Perform a torch-lighting ceremony

In true Yom HaAtzmaut spirit, conduct a torch-lighting ceremony of your own. Each participant can light a candle symbolizing unity, hope, and freedom, and share what these principles mean to them.

ORGANIZE

Organize an Israeli film festival

Discover the rich diversity of Israel's cinematic landscape by hosting an Israeli film festival at home. Feature classic Israeli films such as 'Yentl', 'The Band’s Visit', or 'Walk on Water'.

LEARN

Learn an Israeli dance

One of the hallmarks of Yom HaAtzmaut is the joyous Israeli folk dances performed in celebrations across the country. Learn a popular Israeli dance step via a tutorial online and teach your friends the steps!

COOK

Cook Israeli cuisine

Dive into Israeli cuisine by making classic recipes such as shakshuka, hummus, or falafel. Invite your friends and let them get a taste of Israel's mouthwatering culinary delights.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Yom HaAtzmaut is Important

Exposure to rich Israeli culture

Yom HaAtzmaut offers an excellent opportunity for everyone to immerse in Israeli culture. The holiday calls for participating in traditional dances, tasting flavorful Israeli cuisine, and watching notable Israeli films. Celebrating Yom HaAtzmaut brings the vibrancy of Israeli culture and traditions to the forefront.

Yom HaAtzmaut symbolizes freedom and independence

Yom HaAtzmaut is a day of significance as it celebrates the birth of a nation - Israel. On this day, we honor the strength and resilience of Israel, and remember how the Jewish state fought for its independence. This poignant history makes Yom HaAtzmaut a treasured holiday.

It promotes unity and collective celebrations

Yom HaAtzmaut isn't just about remembering history, it's also about unity - people of different backgrounds coming together to join in the joyous festivities. From community parades to dancing and singing, the holiday's traditions help foster feelings of companionship and unity among participants.