As dusk falls over Israel on Tuesday evening, sirens will pierce the air, ushering in Yom Hazikaron—Israel’s official Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism. The nation pauses in solemn remembrance of the more than 24,000 Israeli soldiers and thousands of civilians who have lost their lives defending the country or as victims of attacks.
A Nation Remembers
Yom Hazikaron is a deeply emotional day on the Israeli calendar, observed this year from Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening. It commemorates those who made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard the nation’s existence and security. The first siren, lasting one minute, will sound nationwide at 8 p.m. Tuesday, halting all activity in streets, homes, and businesses as Israelis stand in silence. The second siren, lasting two minutes, will follow at 11 a.m. Wednesday, marking the start of nationwide memorial services.
The solemnity of the day will be reflected in official ceremonies, including the state ceremony at the Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem, attended by President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will participate in the opening ceremony earlier Tuesday at Yad LaBanim, honoring fallen soldiers.
Throughout the country, thousands will visit military cemeteries to attend local services, recite prayers, and lay wreaths on the graves of loved ones. A musical tribute titled “Songs in Their Memory” will be held in the Knesset Tuesday evening.
Why Were the Dates Moved?
This year, the Hebrew calendar date for Yom Hazikaron and Independence Day (Iyar 4–5, 5785) falls on a Friday–Saturday. In accordance with Israeli law and tradition—designed to avoid Sabbath desecration due to public rehearsals and security arrangements—the days have been moved forward. This ensures that the dignity of the Sabbath and the honor of the fallen are both preserved.
What’s Closed and When?
On Tuesday evening, the eve of Memorial Day, public entertainment venues must close by law. Theaters, cafes, restaurants, and cinemas will remain shut from 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., fostering a reflective atmosphere. Television and radio programming are replaced with documentaries, biographies, and tributes to the fallen.
Schools and kindergartens will operate on reduced schedules Wednesday morning, often ending by noon to allow participation in ceremonies. No classes will be held on Independence Day (Wednesday evening through Thursday), and normal education schedules will resume on Friday.
The Transition to Independence Day
The contrast between Yom Hazikaron and Independence Day—from mourning to celebration—is intentional and symbolic. Israel’s 77th Independence Day begins immediately after Memorial Day ends, highlighting the sacrifices that made statehood possible.
The transition will be marked with a state closing ceremony at 7:45 p.m. Wednesday on Mount Herzl, where the traditional torch-lighting ceremony will launch national celebrations. This unique back-to-back observance, where grief gives way to joy, underscores the resilience and unity of the Israeli people.
Full Schedule of Key Events
Tuesday, April 29 (Yom Hazikaron Eve):
- 4:30 p.m.: Opening ceremony at Yad LaBanim, Jerusalem
- 8:00 p.m.: Nationwide one-minute siren
- 8:01 p.m.: State ceremony at the Western Wall Plaza
- 9:15 p.m.: “Songs in Their Memory” musical tribute at the Knesset
Wednesday, April 30 (Yom Hazikaron):
- 8:30 a.m.: Name reading of the fallen at Mount Herzl
- 11:00 a.m.: Nationwide two-minute siren
- 11:02 a.m.: IAF flyover and main memorial service at Mount Herzl
- 1:00 p.m.: Ceremony for terror victims at Mount Herzl
- 7:45 p.m.: Transition and state ceremony launching Independence Day
As Israel pauses to remember its heroes, Yom Hazikaron offers a moment of collective mourning and gratitude. It’s a time to reflect not only on the cost of freedom but also on the spirit and unity of a nation that continues to stand strong against all odds.
