Jewish Federation Hosting Israeli Independence Celebration

BEACHWOOD, OH — The annual Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration — a festival celebrating Israel's Independence Day — will be held April 15 in Warrensville Heights.

The event is free and open to the community, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland said. Attendees can participate by driving-in at Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights, or visiting online from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

“Yom Ha’atzmaut is one of the largest Jewish community-wide events here in Cleveland,” said event co-chair Michael Stovsky of Beachwood. “With this hybrid format, individuals and families can celebrate in their own unique way. I look forward to participating virtually with our community.”

At the drive-in, attendees will be encouraged to decorate their cars and wear blue and white, like the Israeli flag. Guests will stay in their cars while they enjoy a musical performance from Israel by the "Lehava" band, greetings from Tom Elgart, base commander at Havat Hashomer, plus live dancers, stilt walkers, dancers, magicians and more.

There will also be a family-friendly lot where families with young kids can enjoy a bubble show and other activities.

Attendees can order Israeli food from Kantina in advance, which will then be delivered to their cars.

The parking lot at Corporate College East will open at 5 p.m.

“I am excited to bring my family to the drive-in experience and celebrate together,” said event co-chair Allison Wuliger of Kirtland. “We look forward to offering attendees an interactive experience, complete with Israeli music, games, lively entertainment, and more!”

The virtual celebration will be a simulcast of the drive-in experience. Virtual attendees can also take advantage of nearby kosher restaurants' Yom Ha’atzmaut Special. Participating restaurants include Arova, Chocolate Emporium, Fishstix, Kantina and Milky Way. Restaurants can be contacted directly for more details and ordering.

The first 200 registrants who register for either the virtual or drive-in experience will receive an “Israel in a Box” activity box.