Thousands of members of Chicago’s Jewish community will gather for the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago’s (JUF) annual Israel Solidarity Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at Ravinia Park in Highland Park.
The day includes entertainment, food, a three-mile walk through Highland Park, a one-mile family walk and more to celebrate the modern State of Israel’s 65th birthday.
“Each year Israel Solidarity Day brings together the Jewish community to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) and stand together in support of Israel,” JUF said in a flyer. “This year … we come together for one big event.” Israel Independence Day was April 16.
In the past, Israel Solidarity Day was held at numerous locations in the city and suburbs, but this year, as JUF did five years ago, one event is planned. The event is free. Though there is same day sign up, the last day to pre-register is Thursday which can be done online.
A teen service project starts at 10 a.m. with registration beginning at 11 a.m. Entertainment starts with the King David Drummers at 11:30 a.m. and the Maccabeats, an acapella group, at 12:15 p.m. before a 1 p.m. rally, a prelude to the walk at 1:15 p.m. The King David Drummers return at 2:30 p.m. with Matisyahu, a reggae and alternative rock performer, ending the day at 3 p.m.
Honorary co-chairs of the event are Gov. Patrick Quinn, Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Highland Park) and Israeli Midwest Consul General Roey Gilad.