Posted on 10/04/23
Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 4, 2023 - Over 60,000 participants took part Wednesday in the 68th Jerusalem March. The March was the first established and largest march in Israel and has become a tradition during Chol Hamoed Sukkot.
Thousands of Israelis lined the route to cheer on the many delegations from across the country and from 90 countries around the world. Among the participating countries were the USA, Angola, Bolivia, Bulgaria, China, Italy, Chile, Indonesia, Brazil, Fiji, Taiwan, Singapore, Norway, Australia, Canada, Japan, and more.
The Jerusalem March included three main events this year: Three morning routes of different lengths went through Jerusalem's nature trails and into the Old City, ending at a giant picnic for families in Sacher Park. The international parade through the streets in the center of Jerusalem was led by the Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion, and his wife, accompanied by the police orchestra and security forces. The march also featured marching bands, IDF soldiers, street artists, dance groups, flag bearers, and antique cars. These were accompanied by giant dolls of characters from children's fairy tales and fantasy, a Brazilian band, dancers, and other attractions that made the event particularly festive and colorful.
"I was very excited to welcome tens of thousands of marchers from 90 countries and from all over Israel. It warms the heart to see the love Jerusalem receives. It's an uplifting soulful experience. Happy holiday and joyous celebrations, " stated the Mayor.
It has become an annual event for young Israeli families to attend and children to collect small flags from the countries participating. Offering sweets and handshakes to the marchers, with signs and songs of mutual appreciation from the tens of thousands of spectators and those walking the route from Sacher Park to the First Station.
El Al, phone company Bezek, and health fund Callit were groups that marched. Also, Matnat Chaim, Gift of Life, the non-profit started by Rabbi Yeshayahu Heber Z"L for kidney donation had a group participating. Evelyn and Limor didn't know each other and "became sisters" after Evelyn donated a kidney to Limor and gave her the gift of life. They were to march together today wearing bright green tee shirts in the Jerusalem March, however, Limor was unable to attend. BJL met up with Evelyn near the end of the Jerusalem March near the King David Hotel. She had walked the route with other altruistic donors and recipients and was seen passing out treats to children along the route.
The love for Israel and international support was impressive. A family named Brazil received a jacket years ago from a man from Brazil who was marching. Today a young boy got a vest from a man from Brazil, but most received pins, stickers, and flags. From long-time residents to new Olim, people stood for hours in the afternoon watching as the colorful parade passed by.
