Adapted from Vintage Israeli Posters, by Noam Barnon
On the 28th of Iyar in 1967 (June 7 in the secular calendar), during the Six Day War, Jerusalem was reunited under Israeli sovereignty after years of Jordanian rule. Since then, this historic day, today called Jerusalem Day, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by the people of Israel and many Jews worldwide.
Rare poster made in London by Waterlow And Sons Printing Press in the 1920s, available for purchase at Vintage Israeli Posters.
The celebrations start with the “Rural Communities Salute Jerusalem” parade, held a day or two before the holiday. Thousands of people, including members of kibbutzim and moshavim, and rural education institutions, march in the parade, showing their gratitude towards Jerusalem.
On the eve of Jerusalem Day, a grand thanksgiving gathering is held at Mercaz Harav Yeshiva in Jerusalem, with the participation of rabbis and public figures.
State memorial services pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives in the war, including one at Ammunition Hill, which saw one of the toughest battles for the city. Next time you’re in Jerusalem, don’t miss the museum at Ammunition Hill, which conveys the intensity of the battle and transports the visitor to those heady — and dangerous — days.
The Jerusalem Municipality also presents the “Yakir Yerushalayim” awards to deserving citizens who have contributed to the city’s growth and development.
The highlight of the day is the “March of Flags,” also known as the “Dance of Flags,” held in the afternoon hours. Thousands of young people from the religious Zionist movement come to Jerusalem to participate in this event. The celebrants conduct a grand procession with songs, dances and flag-waving, starting from the city center and entering the Old City. The procession culminates at the Kotel, where a mass prayer of thanksgiving is offered.
Jerusalem, the eternal city, is the symbol of Israel’s unity, strength, and resilience. Let us celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and pride, and reiterate our commitment to this beautiful city.
Happy Jerusalem Day!
