Jerusalem Day –  56 Years Since The Reunification of Jerusalem

This week, on the 28th of Iyar, we will celebrate Jerusalem Day – a day to honor and commemorate the liberation of the eternal city of Jerusalem.

On June 7, 1967, during the Six-Day War, Jerusalem was reunited under Israeli sovereignty after years of Jordanian rule. Since then, this historic day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by the people of Israel.

The celebrations start with the “Rural Communities Salute Jerusalem” parade, held a day or two before the holiday. Thousands of people, including members of kibbutzim and moshavim, and rural education institutions, march in the parade, showing their gratitude towards Jerusalem. On the eve of Jerusalem Day, a grand thanksgiving gathering is held at Mercaz Harav Yeshiva in Jerusalem, with the participation of rabbis and public figures. This event sets the tone for the celebrations to come.

Jerusalem Day is marked by festive ceremonies both inside and outside the city, along with state memorial services to pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Six-Day War. State service is conducted at Ammunition Hill, which saw one of the toughest battles for the city. The Jerusalem Municipality also presents the “Yakir Yerushalayim” awards to deserving citizens who have contributed to the city’s growth and development. However, the highlight of the day is the “March of Flags,” also known as the “Dance of Flags,” held in the afternoon hours. Thousands of young people from the religious Zionist movement come to Jerusalem to participate in this event. The celebrants conduct a grand procession with songs, dances, and flag-waving, starting from the city center and entering the Old City. The procession culminates at the Western Wall, where a mass prayer of thanksgiving is offered.

Jerusalem, the eternal city, is the symbol of Israel’s unity, strength, and resilience. Let us celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and pride, and reiterate our commitment to this beautiful city.

Wishing you all a happy Jerusalem Day!