Israel Lights Up The 12 Torches For Yom Ha’atzmaut
AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP/Getty Images
On the fifth day of Iyar of the Hebrew calendar, Israel celebrates Yom Ha’atzmaut, which means “Day of Independence.” Former Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion originally founded the State of Israel in 1948.
The official ceremony takes place on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. The main event is the lighting of the 12 torches that represent the Tribes of Israel. Each year, 12 Israeli citizens who’ve made significant contributions to their communities are chosen to light the torches. Israeli families usually celebrate this day with picnics and barbecues as well. You’d be surprised to learn which upcoming country doesn’t really throw a big party, but they do remember to drink that day…
