New York City Plans to Celebrate Israel at Annual Parade

Hundreds of thousands of New York City spectators will be treated to the largest annual gathering of Israel supporters outside the Holy Land itself, as Fifth Avenue is set to host Manhattan’s Celebrate Israel Parade on June 3.

Around 35,000 marchers are expected along with 29 floats and 18 marching bands. The parade will feature over 200 organizations from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Israel, along with plenty of motorcycle riders, stilt walkers, dancing rollerbladers and juggling clowns, according to the Jerusalem Post.

Grammy-nominated electronic band J. Viewz, Middle Eastern folk group Soulfarm, reggae-influenced Moshe Hecht Band and Jewish rockers Blue Fringe will perform.

The Community Relations Council of New York is the lead parade organizer while additional sponsors include the UJA-Federation of New York, Jewish Communal Fund, Israel Ministry of Public Diplomacy and Diaspora Affairs, Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate General of Israel in New York.

“We are proud to be the major supporter of what is the largest annual pro-Israel event outside the Jewish State itself,” said John S. Ruskay, executive vice president and CEO of UJA-Federation of New York.

“Whether marching in the parade or lining Fifth Avenue to show our support, this is one time of the year when we put aside our differences and demonstrate how we come together for Israel when it matters most.”

Israel’s Minister of Public Diplomacy and Diaspora Affairs Yuli Edelstein told the Jerusalem Post that “[it’s] more than just a parade.”

“This day is a celebration of the special relationship between Israel and America that is rooted in common values and goals. Like America, Israel is a strong, vibrant democracy, a symbol of freedom, tolerance and understanding,” said Edelstein.

“My ministry strives to strengthen our relationship with Jewish communities in the United States, and events like these are critical to both nations.”

The parade will be televised live in the New York metropolitan area for the second consecutive year and streamed online at celebrateisraelny.org from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. To mark the occasion, the Empire State building will shine its tower lights blue and white from June 1-3.