Yom Ha’Atzmaut is going to be even more amazing in Teaneck this year. On April 30, we will take our support for Israel to the streets and to the sky. Our pro-Israel community will once again gather to proclaim our love for Israel. Our theme this year is am hanetzach – the eternal people.
We will remember six heroes who gave their lives al kidush shem shomayim, who have personal and family connections to Bergen County. We will honor the memories of:
Sgt. Eliyahu Moshe Zimbalist
Master Sgt. (res.) Zecharia Haber
Sgt. 1st Class (res.) David Schwartz
Celine Ben David
Master Sergeant (res.) Nadav Elchanan Knoller
Major (Res.) Commander Rabbi Aviram Hariv
With an ongoing war in Israel and growing antisemitism around the world, the importance of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut in our lives only grows. In times of trouble, we feel strength in knowing we are each part of an eternal people, in Israel and around the world. Now is the time to come together to celebrate Am Yisrael.
Registration and a small fee are required at www.rinat.org/yhe. This is for entry and security purposes.
By participating in the Yom Ha’Atzmaut Experience, you will:
- Display your steadfast solidarity with the State of Israel.
- Proudly express your Zionism surrounded by others on this momentous day in Israel’s history.
- Join our Bergen County community in staunch opposition to the surging tide of antisemitism locally and worldwide.
- Enjoy an inspiring musical experience with Eitan Katz and an unforgettable audiovisual drone show.
At this critical time, we must not hide our support for Israel. Our support for Israel belongs in the public square. Israel and America have a long and beautiful partnership. We — as Americans — have been a critical part of Israel’s success. America was there for Israel from the time of its founding. America has not just been a critical ally in Israel’s defense; America has been a beacon of democratic values that has inspired Israel’s democracy. Confronted with pernicious anti-Israel and anti-America propaganda and the alarming rise of antisemitism, we will illuminate the darkness with truth and compassion.
Stand with us. Stand for Israel. Join us.
The Details
Congregation Rinat Yisrael has partnered with many local organizations to create the Yom Ha’Atzmaut Experience. It will all take place on April 30, beginning at 6:15 p.m.. The location will be shared with those who register.
The program will commence with Mincha at 6:15 p.m.. At 6:30 p.m., we will begin a Yom Hazikaron kumzitz that will include the traditional siren as well as video memorials to Israeli soldiers with connections to Bergen County. We will transition to Yom Ha’Atzmaut at 7:35 p.m. with an Aerial Light Show. When the drones come down, we will dance and celebrate Israel’s 77 years of independence. The evening’s festivities will conclude with a special Maariv tefillah at 8:45 p.m.. We invite you to register at www.rinat.org/yhe and partake in any segment of the program that resonates with you.
We eagerly anticipate celebrating Yom Ha’Atzmaut in the company of our community, infusing the event with exuberance and camaraderie. Our aim is to craft an experience that will linger in the memories of children and adults alike — a celebration that will elicit awe and wonder.
Program FAQs
What is it?
A celebration hosted by the Bergen County pro-Israel community in commemoration of Israel’s 77th Independence Day – April 30 beginning at 6:15 p.m..
Where is it?
Those who register will receive an email in advance of the program informing them of the location.
Why should I come?
Our gathering serves as a resounding affirmation of our unwavering support for Israel and our collective rejection of the hatred and bigotry we have been witnessing across the country and, indeed, many parts of the world.
Is it safe?
Yes. We will have a full detail of security personnel and police. Please come early, leaving time for parking and access control.
What is different this year?
We will have a state of the art production with concert speakers and an amazing lead performer – Eitan Katz. We are asking people to register in advance so that we can help maintain safety for everyone. To defray the costs of the evening, the various features at the event, the security and town costs, etc., we are asking for a nominal fee from every entrant: $10 per person, $36 per family. The registration form will show you these options.
Do I have to stay for the whole thing?
No, attendance is flexible. Feel free to come and go as you please. However, registration is required at https://www.rinat.org/yhe for entry and security purposes. Gates open at 5:45 p.m..
What should I bring?
Bring along a blanket and wave the flags of the United States and Israel. Most importantly, bring your smile. No bags, please!
How should I dress?
Attire is casual, but bonus points for donning blue and white — the colors of Israel.
What if it rains?
Come rain or shine, our celebration will proceed, embodying the resilience and spirit of Israel. In the unlikely event of inclement weather, the program will be postponed to Thursday, May 1 at 6:15 p.m..
Will there be davening?
Yes. We will begin with Mincha at 6:15 p.m.. Please bring your own siddur or a siddur app on your phone. (We recommend the Koren Siddur app, which includes the special tefillot that we will say for Yom Ha’Atzmaut.)
Will there be music?
Yes. Lots of it.
What should I tell my friends?
That you are going to show your support for Israel, now. That your voice matters and that their voice does, too. Please join us.
