US crowds mark Israel’s 78th Independence Day at nationwide festivals

Polls show declining support for Israel in many Western countries, including the United States, yet thousands of people turned out over the weekend for Israeli-American Council “Celebrate Israel” festivals across the U.S. Marking Israel’s 78th Independence Day.

The events began on April 23 and will continue through May 3 in cities ranging from New York and Los Angeles to other communities with large Jewish populations such as Miami, Boston, Atlanta, Houston, Las Vegas, San Diego, Seattle, Philadelphia, Washington, and smaller communities in Florida and New Jersey are also participating.

Many of the events had a carnival-like atmosphere, with food courts offering Israeli cuisine, musical performances of traditional songs – often accompanied by dance routines – and arts and crafts activities for both children and adults. The programs also included flag parades and speeches by pro-Israel political and civic leaders.

The events received largely positive coverage in local media, though some outlets offered more critical perspectives.

Miriam, a retired schoolteacher from Passaic, New Jersey, attended the event on New York’s Upper East Side. “It was so nice to talk to people I haven’t seen in years, including former students and families my children grew up with,” she said. “They’re all grown up now and have children of their own. Some are studying in yeshivot in Israel or living there, but were visiting family or in town for work. It was amazing to catch up on everything everyone is doing.

“I haven’t been to Israel in a few years, so events like this remind me how important it is to stay connected and be part of the community. With so much criticism of Israel these days, it’s important to come out, show support, and let Israelis know they’re not alone.”

The event in New York attracted over 1,000 visitors and featured actors portraying historical figures, including Theodor Herzl, Golda Meir, and David Ben-Gurion, who mingled with the crowd, answered questions from children, and let people take pictures with them. Over 3,000 people showed up to the event in Woodland Hills, California, while another 1,000 came to the event in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“At this historic and pivotal time, the Israeli-American and American-Jewish community, together with our friends and allies, are turning out in droves to show their pride and love for Israel and to celebrate the incredible success story of the Jewish State on its 78th Independence Day,” said Elan S. Carr, IAC CEO and former U.S. special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism.

“We have all the more reason to celebrate now: Despite the challenges and security threats, Israel is a global model of strength and excellence, and the US-Israel alliance has never been better. Am Yisrael Chai [the people of Israel live].”

According to the IAC website, “The mission of the Israeli-American Council (IAC) is to build an engaged and united Israeli-American community that strengthens the Israeli and Jewish identity of our next generation, the American Jewish community, and the bond between the peoples of the United States and the State of Israel.”

The organization adds that since its establishment, it has aimed to serve as a welcoming space for Israeli and American Jews – a place to connect over a shared affinity for Israel and celebrate their heritage.

“We believe preserving and cultivating our Jewish and Israeli identity is a collaborative journey,” the website states. “That’s why the IAC offers enriching and innovative programming: from educational activities for children and teens to cultural initiatives on college campuses, as well as training and empowerment of community leaders and activists.”