The Bible Contest and the IAF air show: What to do on Independence Day
The Israel Air Force will fly jets across the country and 16 teenagers from around the world will test their knowledge of the Bible.
By MAARIV ONLINEA man waves flags of Israel as Israeli Air Force planes fly in formation over the Mediterranean Sea during an aerial show as part of the celebrations for Israel's Independence Day marking the 70th anniversary of the creation of the state, in Tel Aviv, Israel April 19, 2018.(photo credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN)
The State of Israel launched on Wednesday its 71st Independence Day with a traditional ceremony on Mount Herzl.At 8:00 p.m., the flag was raised and Israel's Memorial Day came to an end. The happier holiday was brought in with fireworks and performances in various cities and towns. On Thursday, as many Israelis enjoy what has become a traditional barbecue with their families and loved ones, state events will take place, as well.At 9 a.m., President Reuven Rivlin will host a special ceremony saluting IDF soldiers who serve with distinction.At 9:30 a.m., the Israel Air Force will conduct its traditional airshow, allowing those on the ground to see the many different planes Israel employs. In addition to that massive airshow, a smaller one will be held honoring the residents of the south of the country, following the latest round of rockets fired by Hamas. At 11:00 a.m., the International Bible Contest will be held in the Jerusalem Theater at the presence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Speaker of the Knesset Yuli-Yoel Edelstein, Education Minister Naftali Bennett, Jewish Agency head Isaac Herzog and Jewish National Fund head Daniel Atar. This year, the theme of the contest will be “keeping the unity, keeping things unique.”The day will end with the official ceremony in which the Israeli Prize will be awarded. That ceremony, also, will take place in Jerusalem.
