“A super fun day… a day of celebration, family, and unity!” That’s how Ilyssa Tepperman describes this year’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Israel Block Party, and honestly? We couldn’t say it better ourselves.
On Sunday, May 4, our Greater MetroWest community is coming together to celebrate Israel’s 77th birthday with an unforgettable experience that brings the spirit of Israel to life right here at home.
We asked the incredible committee members who’ve been planning this event for months to share what they’re most excited about (and why you should be, too).
“There’s no better feeling than being surrounded by hundreds of Jewish people of all ages to celebrate and enjoy our shared culture,” says Marla Kleinbaum. That feeling is at the heart of what the Israel Block Party is all about: connection, pride, and standing strong together.
“We have spent months planning this special day, and it includes areas and activities from all over Israel, like the Galilee, the Negev, Tel Aviv, Ofakim, and Kibbutz Erez,” Marla shares. She predicts “the delicious food and shopping in the shuk (market)” will be some of the biggest hits.
But beyond the festivities, the Israel Block Party carries deeper meaning.
“Now more than ever, people need to celebrate everything, not only about Israel but about Jewish identity,” says Ilyssa. “Celebrating Israel’s independence is incredibly special and important. Israel is our homeland, and it needs to be cherished.”
Rachel Bernstein agrees: “I can’t wait to see our community come together for such a meaningful celebration. The Israel Block Party is a way to support one another, celebrate Israel’s independence, and feel connected even from afar. With delicious food, the Israeli-style Amazing Race, and so many ways to experience the spirit of Israel, I think people are going to love every part of it.”
Even for those who can’t be in Israel right now, this day bridges that distance. “The block party connects us to Israel because we are all family,” Ilyssa explains.
For Marla, that connection is even more personal. “I was last in Israel right before October 7. Having this event makes me feel more connected to Israel, since I can’t go back right now.”
Invite your friends, your family, your neighbor who loves hummus, and show up with pride, with love, and with all the support our Israeli brothers and sisters deserve right now.
We’ll bring the shuk, the snacks, the music, the memories.
You just bring your blue and white.