This year the Yom Ha’atzmaut Committee brought a brand new event to Manchester which drew in the crowds.
2015 saw a complete revamp of Manchester’s Yom Ha’atzmaut communal celebrations which for the first time took place at Manchester Maccabi.
During the event, the Shuk marquee remained a hub of activity, hosting stalls from local Jewish shops and charities. Meanwhile, children were entertained with Israeli-themed arts and crafts and games linked to a place in Israel, as well as a range of inflatable rides.
Food choices included a Ta’am Israeli barbeque, a mozzarella pizza from their van, and treats from Brackmans. Maccabi’s bar and bistro were also open for attendees in which the Shir Chadash band played throughout.
In the main marquee, the proceedings commenced with the Menorah Choir and ended with people dancing to the live Israeli band, Shakshuka. There was a surprise fireworks display outside too, although the highlight for many was the torch lighting ceremony which emulated the Yom Ha’atzmaut ones in Israel.
During the ceremony – which is hoped to play a part in Manchester’s future Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations – seven individuals who have contributed to the community were recognised. Those in question included the Deputy Ambassador to Israel, Eitan Na’eh; Tracy and Tony Levene of the Duchenne Now charity; David Elms, the UK director of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ); Mark Saperia who volunteers at Allingham House in Altrincham; Arron Gabel, nominated by King David High School for his kindness; Hannah Levy from the Langdon community; and Chaim Ferster, a local Holocaust survivor.
Melissa Chapman, Yom Ha’atzmaut 67 Committee co-chair, commented: “We had over 1,000 people across the evening with the whole spectrum of the community represented. We hope to build on this success and bring the community something even more spectacular next year!”