Bedford Middle School will be transformed into a lively festival when UJA/Federation Westport Weston Wilton Norwalk hosts a celebration of Israeli culture on the occasion of the state’s 64th Independence Day.
The event will offer programming for children, teens, and adults, including educational activities, musical entertainment, and a marketplace of Israeli art, jewelry, books, and food.
The Israel Celebration is free of charge and open to the community.
From 9:30-11 a.m., the area synagogue religious schools present “Yom Israel – Israel Experience” for children, including an IDF Boot Camp simulation, a 3-D virtual tour of Israel, GaGa (Israeli dodgeball), Israeli arts & crafts, and more! All family members are invited to join their children in grades K-6 for this hands-on experience. Children not attending with religious schools are welcome, if accompanied by an adult. Children in grades K-3 must attend with an adult.
At 11:15, all are invited to “Rock with Shir Ba’Emek,” an energetic concert of traditional and modern Israeli tunes by the official singing ensemble of the city of Afula, Israel. This award-winning musical group has performed throughout Israel and internationally.
At 12:45 p.m., the day culminates with a presentation by Birthright Israel for high-school teens and their families, offering an inside look at this life-changing Israel experience. Since its inception in 2000, Birthright Israel has sent nearly 300,000 Jewish young adults to Israel with the goal of building understanding, friendship, and a lasting bond with the land and people of Israel. In addition to Birthright, teens will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from a range of organizations that offer teen study, travel, and volunteer activities in Israel.
From 10 a.m. on, a bazaar of select vendors will be offering unique Israeli wares, from handmade jewelry and crafts, to Israeli books and original Israeli fine art. Authentic Mediterranean delights such as falafel and hummus will be available from a kosher concession.
Admission is free. No reservations or advance tickets are required.
