Henna-tattooing, puppet shows and klezmer music offered something for everyone. Falafel, bourekas, piroshkes, knishes and popcorn fed the masses, which numbered an estimated 8,000.
The previous year’s celebration of Israel’s 50th birthday took place at Golden Gate Park. Sharon Meadows became the state of Israel for a day with 10 “cities” to visit. Those dropping by Tel Aviv and Jaffa bought pottery. Folks left notes at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. They ate ethnic food in Kiryat Shmona.
There was a Masada for climbing, an Eilat beach for swimming and a place for meditating in Safed. Belly dancers gave demonstrations in Beersheva. Camels gave rides in Negev. Israeli rock star Rami Kleinstein gave a performance on the main stage.