Jerusalem Day, also known as Yom Yerushalayim, commemorates the reunification of Jerusalem every 28th day of Iyar. This Israeli national holiday marks the establishment of Israeli control over the Old City after the Six-Day War in 1967. Join parades, attend lectures, and participate in community events to honor this significant historical moment.
Want to sponsor Jerusalem Day? Learn how
Expected Jerusalem Day Deals
Jerusalem Day is primarily a day of national and religious observance rather than commercial deals. Instead, the focus shifts to educational programs, cultural events, and community gatherings that honor the reunification of Jerusalem. Organizations like the Jewish Federations of North America often support initiatives promoting understanding and connection to Jerusalem. Local Jewish community centers and synagogues may host lectures, prayer services, and celebratory meals. We encourage individuals to seek out official events and support cultural institutions that preserve and share Jerusalem’s rich heritage.
Platform Guide for Jerusalem Day
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #JerusalemDay. Share stories, historical photos, or videos of celebrations from your community.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #JerusalemDay. Engage in discussions about Jerusalem’s history and significance, sharing news and updates.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #JerusalemDay. Post vibrant photos of Jerusalem, cultural events, or personal reflections on its importance.
Jerusalem Day Hero
Moshe Dayan
History of Jerusalem Day
Israel declared its independence in 1948 and shortly after that, it was attacked by Arab countries, resulting in the Arab-Israeli War which lasted from May 15, 1948, to March 10, 1949.
The war ended with an Israeli victory, Jordanian partial victory, and Palestinian and Egyptian defeats. In the aftermath of the war, Jerusalem was divided as Israeli forces controlled most of the city while East Jerusalem and the Old City were controlled by Jordanian forces.
The Old City housed a lot of religious monuments and was a very good location strategically. Places such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Christian), the Dome of the Rock and al-Aqsa Mosque (Muslim), the Temple Mount and the Western Wall or Kotel (Jewish) amongst others were within the Old City and so Israeli forces sought to regain the place.
The six-day war between Israel and Jordan started on June 6, 1967, and the Old City was captured the next day. The end of the War on June 11 due to a cease-fire resulted in the reunification of Jerusalem as part of Isreal. On the Hebrew calendar, this day fell on the 28th day of the month of Iyar and is now used to commemorate Jerusalem day.
The next year in May 1968, the 28th of Iyar was set as a holiday to mark the unification of Jerusalem, and then years down the line in 1998, the Israeli government passed the Jerusalem Day Law to officially make the day a national holiday. The day continues to be celebrated by the Jewish community in and outside Israel. The day is not a public holiday, however, as businesses have normal opening hours.
Jerusalem Day timeline
Israel declares its independence and the Arab-Israeli war begins.
The Arab-Israeli war ends with an Israeli victory and a part Jordanian victory.
The six-day war between Israel and Jordan begins with Israel gaining control over the Old City.
The 28th day of Iyar is set as a holiday to mark the unification of Jerusalem
The Israeli government passes the Jerusalem Day Law to officially make the day a national holiday.
Jerusalem Day FAQs
When is Jerusalem Day?
In 2027, Jerusalem Day falls on Sunday, June 6. This significant date celebrates the historical event when the Old City of Jerusalem came under Israeli control during the Six-Day War.
How many people celebrate Jerusalem Day?
While exact figures vary, the observance of Jerusalem Day extends beyond Israel’s borders, with Jewish communities in the diaspora holding events and ceremonies. It unites many in reflecting on Jerusalem’s enduring spiritual and historical importance.
What is the significance of Jerusalem Day?
The holiday holds profound religious and national significance, marking the day when Jews regained access to their holy sites in the Old City after 19 years of Jordanian control. It is a celebration of Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Israel and the Jewish people.
Is Jerusalem Day a public holiday in Israel?
As a national holiday, schools often hold special programs, and many public institutions participate in commemorative events. It’s a day of reflection and celebration across the country, though business operations generally continue.
How to Observe Jerusalem Day
Recite the Hallel prayer
Celebrate the day by receding the Hallel prayer. It is a prayer that is recited by observant Jews on Jewish holidays as an act of praise and thanksgiving.
Prepare a special meal
Prepare a special Jewish meal or visit a Jewish restaurant to eat a good Jewish meal. After all, what are celebrations without a feast?
Attend a street parade
Attend a street parade to celebrate the day. There’ll be lots of street parades, you just have to pick one to attend and have fun.
5 Interesting Facts About Jerusalem
It snows in Jerusalem
Israel is mostly desert but at an elevation of over 700 meters above sea level, Jerusalem tends to stay cool and even experiences snow.
It houses the world’s oldest cemetery
Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives is the oldest active burial site in the world and houses more than 150,000 Jewish graves.
It is a walled city
The walls of Jerusalem are about 2.5 miles long, 40 feet tall, and eight feet thick.
The structures look alike
Municipal law ensures that all structures in the city are covered in Jerusalem stone to preserve the historical look of the city.
The world’s fastest-growing high-tech hubs
Jerusalem is mostly known for its historical significance, but it has also been called the ‘Capital of Hi-Tech’ due to the numerous technological investments being made.
Why Jerusalem Day is Important
It teaches people about their history
Jerusalem Day ushers in teachings about how the day came about. People, especially the younger ones, get to understand their history.
It celebrates fallen heroes
The day celebrates those that fought to bring Jerusalem to where it is today. These fallen heroes should never be forgotten and Jerusalem Day celebrates them.
It preserves culture
Knowing the history of Jerusalem helps people see the need to preserve certain cultural values. Over time, some cultural values may be lost, but celebrations like these keep them in check.
Social Media Tips for Jerusalem Day
Individuals
Creators
Brands