On the 17th of May 2018, hundreds of locals from Düsseldorf, Germany celebrated the traditional “Israel Tag”, Israel Day on the Schadowplatz, one of the city’s major places. 

Starting at noon with the Israeli DJ and singer Boaz Perri, the event attracted Starting people to the square with Israeli and international music. From the large stage decorated with flags and blue and white balloons, locals enjoyed the typical Falafel and salads, and received as well flyers and leaflets concerning social, cultural and economical activities taking place in Israel. Israel’s technological innovations, as well as the relationship between Germany and Israel were especially stressed. 

In the early afternoon, the public was officially greeted by Thomas Geisel, Mayor of Düsseldorf who gave his patronage for the event, as well as André Kuper, President of the federal Parliament and Dr. Oded Horowitz, Chairman of the Board of the Jewish Community in Düsseldorf. Members of the Parliament and several Consulate-Generals of different countries also attended the event, covered by the media including the local TV station. 

Later, the well-known Israeli singer Yael Deckelbaum entered the stage, accompanied by Idan Toledano. Her soft music concentrated on the yearning of the people for peace. The musical highlight was then reached with the concert of German pop star Gil Ofarim. Doyens of helium-filled balloons were sent up, colouring the sky in blue and white. The event closed with the singing of the Hatikva, Israel’s national anthem. 

Franz Rosenzweig initiated the Israel Day in Düsseldorf fifteen years ago, and the idea to celebrate Israel’s birthday publicly with an “Israel Day” originated from the think tank “I Like Israel” (ILI).  The Lodge has been ever since an active partner in the organisation of the event.