Since the establishment of the State of Israel, four new holidays have been added to the Jewish calendar - Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day), Yom HaAatzmaut (Independence Day), and Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day). In Israel, these holidays are observed as national holidays.

The Israeli Knesset established the day before Yom HaAtzmaut, as Yom HaZikaron, a Memorial Day for soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the War of Independence and in other subsequent battles.

Yom HaAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day, marks the establishment of the modern state of Israel in 1948. It is observed on or near the 5th of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in April. Learn more>

Yom HaZikaron & Yom HaAtzmaut 101: History & More

What is the history of Yom HaZikaron & Yom HaAtzmaut? What is the Reform Movement doing in Israel? Get answers to your questions and find information about how you can travel to Israel.

Congregational Observance 

Program guide and ways to celebrate in your community.

Families & Children 

For families with children, there are so many ways to make your celebration of Yom HaZikaron & Yom HaAtzmaut a meaningful experience.

Around the Reform Movement 

Great resources from URJ affiliates.