We are so excited. The Yom Ha’atzmaut Experience is just a few days away. Our pro-Israel community will once again take center stage, proclaiming our love for Israel.

Our theme this year is achdut. 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, achdut is our guiding ethos, forging connections within Israel and fostering solidarity among Jews across the globe. Particularly now, the opportunity to join together and fully realize the principles of Zionism and celebrate Israel becomes of paramount importance.

Registration and a small fee are required at https://bit.ly/3Qxu9ab. This is for entry and security purposes.

The Yom Ha’atzmaut Experience will:

Display our steadfast solidarity with the State of Israel.

Provide an outlet to proudly express our Zionism on this momentous day in Israel’s history.

Galvanize our community in staunch opposition to the surging tide of antisemitism locally and worldwide.

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 the 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.

We have created an exciting program that you will not want to miss. Our request of you: Stand with us. Stand for Israel. Join us.

Congregation Rinat Yisrael has partnered with many local organizations to create the Yom Ha’atzmaut Experience. It will all take place on May 13: The location will be announced once you sign up.

Commencing with the Yom Hazikaron Kumzitz at 6 p.m., followed by Mincha/Maariv at 7:45 p.m., and culminating in an Aerial Light Show at 8:15 p.m., the evening’s festivities will conclude with dancing (finishing before 9 p.m.). We invite you to register at www.rinat.org/yhe and partake in any segment of the program that resonates with you.

The Kumzitz will feature soul-stirring Jewish, Hebrew and American patriotic melodies performed by local musicians, alongside poignant video tributes honoring Israel’s fallen heroes. We anticipate a breathtaking display during the aerial light show, surpassing even the splendor of last year’s event. All are welcome to join us, whether for a portion or the entirety of the festivities.

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 elicits awe and wonder.

Program FAQs:

What is it?

A celebration hosted by the Bergen County pro-Israel community in commemoration of Israel’s 76th Independence Day.

Where is it?

You will get an email once you’ve registered and have been approved

Why should I come?

There is a Talmudic doctrine, “Shtika ke’hoda-ah,”which suggests, “Silence presumes agreement.” In the face of injustice and adversity, silence is complicity. 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 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; $5 per person, $18 per family. The registration form will show you these options. Know that for the family options you can enter two names per line (six people).

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://bit.ly/3Qxu9ab for entry and security purposes.

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 as planned, embodying the resilience and spirit of Israel. In the unlikely event of inclement weather, the program will be postponed to Tuesday, May 14 at 6 p.m..

Will there be davening?

Yes. We will begin with Mincha at 7:45 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.

Rabbi Chaim Strauchler is the rabbi of Congregation Rinat Yisrael.