Yamim

Yamim are the three days that the Jewish community comes together to honor the journey and resilience of the Jewish people.

YOM HASHOAH

EVENING OF MAY 5–6

Yom HaShoah, commemorating the Holocaust and heroism, occurs annually on the 27th day of Nissan in the Jewish calendar. The date was chosen in 1951 by Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, to commemorate the Warsaw Ghetto uprising against the Nazis in 1943. While the separate International Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp by the Soviet Army in 1945, Yom HaShoah emphasizes Jewish resilience and self-determination.

In Israel, nationwide sirens halt activity for two minutes at sundown and at 11 a.m. Media broadcasts focus on remembering the lost and celebrating survivors’ heroism. Worldwide, Yom HaShoah ceremonies mourn the tragedy while honoring survivors, and pledge to prevent such horrors in the future.

YOM HAZIKARON

EVENING OF MAY 12–13

Israel’s Memorial Day, established officially in 1963 (though observed since 1948), honors soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the Jewish homeland. Occurring on the fourth day of Iyar on the Jewish calendar and preceding independence day, the juxtaposition emphasizes the sacrifices that are integral to Israel’s history. The day also extends remembrance to security personnel and civilians lost to terrorism.

The entire nation pauses with sirens followed by prayers in military cemeteries. Entertainment venues, stores, and restaurants close for the day while people attend public ceremonies and visit cemeteries.

YOM HA’ATZMAUT

EVENING OF MAY 13–14

Greeting: Chag atzmaut sameach (“hahg atz-mah-OOT sah-MAY-ahkh”) or happy Independence Day

A ceremonial flag raising over the national cemetery at Har Herzl signifies the transition from the solemnity of Yom HaShoah and Yom HaZikaron to the joy of independence day, which commemorates Israel’s birth in 1948. Festivities include evening concerts, street celebrations, and communal singing.

Other activities include hikes and picnics, and the annual Israel Prize recognizes outstanding contributions to culture, science, arts, and the humanities. Some synagogues also hold special services.