Jerusalem Celebrates 50 Years of Unification

The Fellowship  |  May 24, 2017

Today, the people of Israel are celebrating 50 years of a reunified Jerusalem. There are many events taking place across the Holy Land, some of them festive and others solemn. Ynet News’ Yael Friedson and Assaf Kamar report on the various festivities the people of Israel are observing, from a Flag Dance Parade to memorials for those IDF soldiers who gave their lives during the Six-Day War that brought the Holy City back to the Jewish people:

Jerusalem Day celebrations began on Tuesday in the capital with various events and concerts well into the night and continue in full force on Wednesday as the city marks 50 years to its unification.

The President’s Residence hosted a musical event on Tuesday evening titled “Singing for you Jerusalem,” which featured a variety of artists and songs about the city. At Safra Square, the Jerusalem Symphonic Orchestra performed with Israeli singers Miri Mesika, David D’Or and Kobi Aflalo.

Wednesday’s events include several memorial ceremonies. A state memorial service to some 4,000 Ethiopian immigrants who died on their way to Israel was held at the Mount Herzl cemetery.

A state memorial for Six-Day War fallen soldiers will be held on Mount Herzl at 2pm, and later memorial services will be held by monuments for the Paratroopers Brigade.

The Knesset held a special session attended by President Reuven Rivlin. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Opposition chairman Isaac Herzog and Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein were all scheduled to speak at the parliamentary gathering.

At the Tower of David, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat and his wife are hosting a festive reception starting at midday and ending at 6pm. The event features characters from Jerusalem’s past and present coming to life at the museum and live music from the Jerusalem Andalusian Orchestra and singers Emil Zrihan, Orit Atar and Idan Amedi.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to participate in several planned marches…

Stand for Israel will keep you updated with the Jerusalem Day events, and also check out Yael Eckstein’s Facebook page for live updates from the Holy Land!