Israel celebrated its 73rd Independence Day on Thursday, with Israelis, Jews, and allies from all over the globe wishing the country a happy birthday.
The celebrations began on Wednesday evening with fireworks, ceremonies and parties across Israel.
Fireworks in #Jerusalem for Independence Day now pic.twitter.com/PYbJp1vgQK
— Seth Frantzman (@sfrantzman) April 14, 2021
The IDF commemorated its role in Israel's fight for independence with its air force display and soldier representatives at the Opening Ceremony on the eve of Independence Day.
The Opening Ceremony on Mount Herzl also included a segment in which selected candidates who contributed to the welfare of the country were invited to light a torch in honor of Israel's 73rd anniversary.
Shira Iskov (right), who became a prominent member of the fight against violence against women by speaking publicly about her husband's alleged attempt to murder her, and Adi Guzi, her neighbor who saved her from the murder attempt, light a torch at the Independence Day ceremony.
Shlomi Shabbat has been gracing the Israeli music world since he burst onto the scene in 1989, but coronavirus forced him to take a step back. In October 2020, he held a virtual press conference praising the medical personnel who took care of him, as well as his devoted fans – closing it with a rendition of his 1989 hit "biglal haruach" (Because of the Wind), an optimistic tune about keeping up a fight.
Young children also joined in the celebrations in kindergartens.
Other countries around the world joined in the celebration, excitedly displaying Israel's blue and white.
From land, sky, and sea, Herzliya's coast celebrated Independence Day and waved the Israeli flag.
