Israel Celebrates 67th Independence Anniversary

Israel marks its 67th anniversary on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 evening and Thursday, April 23rd, 2015

Israel made the jarring move from grief to joy on Wednesday evening, welcoming Independence Day with fireworks during celebrations in Tel Aviv's Rabin Sq. Photo: Assaf Shilo/Israel

Watching the fireworks from a roof with Israeli flags. Photo: Roni Schutzer/Israel Sun

Jerusalem Municipality lit up The Bridge of Strings, also called the Chords Bridge or Jerusalem Light Rail Bridge, with a display of a 45 ft. tall Star of David in honor of Israel's 67th Independence Day. The structure was designed by the Spanish architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava and is used by Jerusalem Light Rail's Red Line. Photo: Arnon Bosni/Jrslm Muni for Israel Sun

Israel President, Reuven Rivlin, and Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, host and award 120 outstanding IDF soldiers. Photo: Kobi Gideon/GPO for Israel Sun

Israel's Air Force conducted its annual Independence Day flyover on Thursday as a salute to the State of Israel and its citizens. In addition, the IDF opened select bases to the general public for Independence Day activities. The aerial show included appearances by various aircrafts which are in use by the IAF. Photo: Assaf Shilo/Israel Sun

By Kanan Abramson
Aside official ceremonies, Wednesday's night was celebrated in many cities with fireworks and music. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis filled on Thursday state's parks for bar-b-ques as well as private trips across the country and parties. Many attended Tel Aviv beaches to watch a flyover by Israeli Air Force. In Jerusalem, President Reuven Rivlin and his wife, Nechama, joined by Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, hosted on Thursday the country's traditional Independence Day celebrations at the President's Residence, entitled "All of Israel from Jerusalem" - a musical tribute to figures who represent Israeli hope. At the ceremony, Rivlin awarded citations to 120 outstanding soldiers.  The recipients of the awards were selected based upon recommendations from their commanders for their significant service and outstanding contribution to the IDF and the State of Israel.