On Israel’s Independence Day, when most Israelis are on their way to an outdoor BBQ grill party (mangal), radio stations play a long list of familiar songs. Celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut in US Jewish and Israeli communities usually includes a similar mix of food and music. Here are a few fun songs that everyone can enjoy on this joyous day.
Chag Same’ach!
Happy Holiday!
If you happen to be in Israel during Yom Ha’zikaron, you will notice the sirens, the somber mood, the flags at half-mast and a sticker on many lapels with a small red flower and the word “Yizkor.” The flower, Red Everlasting is called in Hebrew “Dam Hamacabim” (Blood of the Maccabees) and is a symbol for The Memorial Day for Israeli Fallen Soldiers and the Victims of Terrorism.
During the 2009 camp season, Israeli artist Sima Sayag spent a month at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin sharing her knowledge of Israeli art and artists with the camp population. Sima guided over 50 campers, ages 11‐16, as they learned about the styles and backgrounds of six artists featured in the Israel Museum. The campers used these styles and techniques to create their own artwork reflecting the programming theme, “Tel Aviv Turns 100.” Campers learned how to mount an art exhibit and acted as docents for campers and staff who toured their gallery.
The Four Sons of the Haggadah – Creative Midrashim
"Each of us contains all aspects of all four children" - Rabbi Yisrael Salanter
Explore the story of Gilad Schalit though the resources below which include background materials, lesson plans, ideas for activities, video clips and much more!
The Galilee Diary is a weekly blog written by Rabbi Marc Rosenstein, an educator living on Moshav Shorashim in northern Israel. It offers accessible, stimulating musings about Israeli life and culture that are intended to be used for educational discussions.
Explore the creativity of Israeli culture and society through the contemporary music. This resource, from Makom, offers an excellent way to access the music of Kobi Oz, one of Israel's most successful and thoughtful musicians, and his latest album, "Psalms of the Perplexed", ("Mizmorei Nevuchim").
Based on the format of the TV show, "Who wants to be a millionaire?" this game focuses on trivia about the history of Israel and contemporary life there. Questions focus on historical events and personalities. Designed originally for celebrating Herzl Day, the game works well for Yom Ha'Atzmaut or any kind of Israel celebration.
The game works best for middle and high school students. Download the full game, including all questions and answers, software and all materials at http://www.herzlday.org/downloads.html
