A double Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration was held in Glasgow on 8 May, with a family event in Carmichael Hall and a concert for adults in the Eastwood Park Theatre.
Arriving at the Family Event, organised by UJIA Programmes and Enjoy, children, parents and grandparents went through Passport Control and Check In at ‘Ben Gurion Airport’. From there they entered Israel’s Market Place to enjoy a large variety of entertainments, fun tasks and stalls. Amongst the star attractions, were a magic show, a mini zoo, a falafel stand and Krav Maga – Israeli Self Defence. Outside, there was an inflatable assault course, a bouncy castle and a bucking bronco.At the end of this event, whilst the concert continued in the theatre, there was a fireworks display in Eastwood Park.
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The performers at the concert in the theatre, were Sounds International, conducted by Eddie Binnie, singer/ songwriter and musician Daniel Canier, and Israeli singer, Avivit, accompanied by Yohan Bay, Ofer Shabi and Cosimo Cadore. Hazel Goodman compered the event, which was opened by Edward Isaacs, vice president of the Glasgow Jewish Representative Council and Provost of East Renfrewshire, Alex Mackie.
There was a small, peaceful demonstration outside Eastwood Park by pro-Palestinian activists, which did not cause any disruption.
Edinburgh Synagogue held services for Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'Atzmaut, on Wednesday evening. These were followed by a celebration Israeli-style buffet supper, provided by the Shul Events Committee, and entertainment from Suzanne Kay who had travelled from Manchester to perform a selection of songs. The evening closed with everyone joining in singing of Hatikvah.