Celebrate at IsraelFest! on May 6!

Each year, our community comes together to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s birthday. This year, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland marks the 70th year of Israel’s independence through a series of community-wide arts, cultural, and educational events – known collectively as the “Israel at 70” series. One of those events is IsraelFest! on May 6 at the Mandel JCC, which will be a carnival-like atmosphere with Israeli games, Israeli food, a shuk (Israeli marketplace), a bounce house, and more fun for all ages.

Watch a video below from Co-Chairs Kerry and Daryl Kertesz about why you should attend our first-ever IsraelFest!

Here’s what Co-Chairs Hallie and Eric Kogelschatz had to say about being a part of this exciting event and living in Jewish Cleveland:

Q – What does it mean to be Co-Chairs of IsraelFest!?

A – We’re so excited to be a part of the team shaping this event. It's important to us to celebrate our connection to Israel – our pride and emotional connection. IsraelFest! is going to be a day of fun for the entire family, with special events for people of every age.

Q – How can our entire community celebrate Israel’s birthday?

A – Clevelanders have a special connection to Israel, and through Federation's efforts the relationship only deepens over time. There is so much to look at from our side of the pond and admire and to be inspired by. This is our chance to take time out to appreciate Israel – and have a little fun doing it!

Q – Why is Jewish Cleveland a great community to live in?

A – Having grown up in Cleveland, we always knew that our community was something special. As we experience Jewish Cleveland as adults, the connectedness of the community is second to none. And most special to us, we are able to raise our children Jewishly because of the incredible amenities here from Jewish day schools, our special congregation at Park Synagogue, and the friends we have made. We feel so fortunate to be able to not just pass on a Jewish legacy, but to have our kids grow up in a place whose Jewish future is so present and bright.

Join the Kertesz and Kogelschatz families, and the entire Jewish Cleveland community at IsraelFest! on May 6. Register Now >>