Lag Baomer 2017 in Jerusalem
Over the centuries, Lag Baomer has become the holiday of bonfires. The name means the 33rd of the counting of the omer. The omer being the 49 days counted from the second day of Passover until the holiday of Shavuot. It is the day on which Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, a rabbi of the second century, is said to have revealed deep kabbalistic secrets in the form of the Zohar, a book of Jewish mysticism.
It is a popular custom to partake in a bonfire and many people go to Meron Mountain in northern Israel to visit bar Yochai’s tomb.
Lag Baomer falls on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, with the day beginning the evening before. Lag Baomer in 2017 falls on the eve of Saturday, May 13 and ends Sunday, May 14, 2017.
2017 Lag Baomer events will be updated soon
See the bonfires
For weeks prior to the holiday, children can often be seen collecting wood for their bonfires. And on the eve of Lag Baomer, almost anywhere you walk in Jerusalem, you will see bonfires, but there are a few places particularly rich with these ritual fires. It’s not the most environmentally friendly tradition, but it is certainly part of the holiday. That said, if you do go, remember to help keep the city clean and pick up your trash.
Just keep in mind that your clothes are going to smell, you should probably wear closed shoes to protect your feet from thorns and, even this time of year, there is sometimes a chill in the air in Jerusalem, so you might want to bring a sweatshirt (that can easily be thrown in the wash afterwards).
Here are a couple of recommended locations to take in the holiday atmosphere (and ash):
Churshat Hayareach
One recommended place is called Churshat Hayareach. It is split into two sections. One is located just below the Jerusalem Theater on Hagdud Haivri Street and another is situated next to Hanson House, across from the Shalom Hartman Institute on Dor Dor V’Dorshav Street.
While walking around the area near Dor Dor V’Dorshav, look out for a large group of English speakers. This will probably be the annual Nefesh B’Nefesh bonfire, organized for people in their 20s and 30s. There will be food, drink, music and lots of socializing. For more information email Benji: benji@nbn.org.il
The Valley of the Cross
The Valley of the Cross is a nature reserve rich with olive trees. It is situated below the Israel Museum, next to Sacher Park and along Haim Hazaz Street. Inside the valley is the majestic Monastery of the Cross (worth a visit during the day). You will happen upon all kinds of people roaming the valley on Lag Baomer eve.
Join a parade
There are many parades that take place in Jerusalem and in other cities around the world on Lag Baomer day. These parades focus on children and on Jewish unity.
Children’s parade in the city center
The parade will start at the plaza near the corner of King George and Ben Yehuda Streets and continue down the Ben Yehuda pedestrian street. There will also be activities, contests, prizes and surprises for the kids.
Where: Sokolov Park, Jerusalem
When: May 26, 2016 at 11:30 am
Cost: Free
Special Events from 2015
Lag B’omer Pub Crawl
The eve of Lag B’omer is a great night to hit up the town. Discover parts of Jerusalem nightlife you might never find on your own with Jerusalem Nights.
Where: Meet at 23 Yafo Street, Jerusalem
When: May 25, 2016 (inquire for exact time)
Cost: TBA
Sign-up: Send a Facebook message to Jerusalem Nights >>
Lag B’omer Kumsitz
Join Mike’s Place for a spiritual jam session. Don’t forget your musical instruments and voices!
Where: Mike’s Place, 31 Yafo Street, Jerusalem
When: May 25, 2016 at 10 pm
Cost: Free admission
NBN Lag B’omer Bonfire
Marshmallows, drinks, music and more!
Where: Churshat Hayareach, 11 Gedalyahu Alon Street. Jerusalem
When: May 26, 2016
Cost: Free admission with registration
Sign-up: Register now!
Lag Baomer at the Bible Lands Museum
Check out the Bible Lands Museum with free admission and partake in some of their special activities (Hebrew) while learning about environmental sustainability. For an extra fee, you can also see the new “By the Rivers of Babylon” exhibit and go on a guided tour (geared toward adults).
Where: 21 Shmuel Stephan Weiz Street, Museum Row, Jerusalem
When: TBA
Cost: TBA