Celebrate Israel’s 75th birthday with the locals! Israeli Independence Day, or Yom Haatzmaut as it’s known in Hebrew, is the wildest party of the year, falling this year on April 26th (beginning the evening before). It comes on the heels of Yom Hazikaron (April 25th), Israel’s military memorial day, and as the sun sets the country moves from somber reflection on what’s been lost, into a joyous, all-out celebration of all we have. So, whether it’s a midnight rooftop party you’re after, a sunny family picnic, a beach bash, or a breathtaking fireworks display, Tel Aviv offers it all. Here’s where you’ll find us on Yom Haatzmaut:
Party at a Beach Club
Image: Website / My Little Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is the city on the sea, and there’s no better way to party than with a drink in your hand and sand between your toes. There’s no shortage of options from Frishman beach to Bograshov to Gordon. These parties typically start the night before the holiday to usher it in. You can enjoy live music, dancing, and food stands while taking in the beautiful views of the sea.
Gordon Beach: Independence Day Party @ Loullie
WHEN: Tuesday, April 25th - 9:30pm
WHERE: HaYarkon 121
HOW: Tickets (100-150NIS)
THE VIBE: On the Gordon Beach promenade steps from the sand, incredible DJ lineup.
Bograshov Beach: Independence by the Sea
WHEN: Tuesday, April 25th, 10:00pm
WHERE: Tayelet, Bograshov Beach
HOW: Tickets (149-299NIS)
THE VIBE: Held in a transparent, panoramic complex with views of the water.
Frishman Beach: Independence x Hype Label
WHEN: Tuesday, April 25th, 10:00pm
WHERE: Frishman Beach
HOW: Tickets (99NIS)
THE VIBE: Celebration of independence with a curated lineup of artists from leading music label HYPE.
Picnic in the Park
Image: Website / ISRAEL21c
There’s nothing Israelis love more than an excuse for a cookout in the park with their families, and the aroma in the air on Yom Haatzmaut is nothing short of mouthwatering. Whether it’s a hearty “al ha-esh” (barbecue) that gets you going, or a totally Instagrammable charcuterie with mimosas, here’s where to spread your picnic blanket:
Gan meir
Gan Meir is a beautiful park in the center of Tel Aviv and is a popular spot to celebrate Independence Day and the park’s namesake, Meir Dizengoff, the first mayor of Tel Aviv. On Yom Haatzmaut the park is filled with people having picnics, playing games, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Throughout the day, experience live performances of Israeli music and dance to traditional Israeli folk dances. In the evening, there is a party with live music and DJs.
Opening hours: 6 AM - 11 PM
Park Hayarkon
Sometimes called the Central Park of Tel Aviv, Park HaYarkon is known for its beautiful running and biking trails, lazy river boat rides, playgrounds and leafy trees shading cool picnic areas. So it’s no wonder it fills up with picnics and mangals (barbecues) on Yom Haatzmaut!
Opening hours: During daylight hours
Israeli Air Force Flyover
Image: Website / The Times of Israel
The unrivaled highlight of the holiday for kids and adults alike is the annual air force flyover. Visible from anywhere in Tel Aviv (but best observed from the beach!), the clear blue skies will give way to a fighter jet formation soaring high over the city, orchestrated by Israel’s world-renowned IAF pilots. The flyover takes the celebration of independence sky-high and gives us a reason to look forward, and up!
WHEN: April 26, between 10:00am - 1:00pm (exact time not yet announced)
Fireworks over Rabin Square
Image: Website / Jewish Unpacked
Rabin Square is the heart of Tel Aviv and is one of the most popular spots to celebrate Independence Day. The square is named after Yitzhak Rabin, the Prime Minister who signed the Oslo Accords in 1993. On Independence Day, the square is transformed into a giant festival with live music, street performances, and food stands. The highlight of the evening is the fireworks display, which starts at 9 PM (on Tuesday night the 25th).
Apart from the fireworks, there is also a laser show that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a more family-friendly experience, Rabin Square is the place to be. The square is filled with families having picnics and enjoying the festive atmosphere. You can also find activities for children, such as face painting and balloon animals.
