On July 4th, the US celebrates its independence from Britain. Every year at this time, Americans and Israelis are reminded of the fight for independence and their common ideals.Attending the July 4th celebration at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu pointed out the similarities between the US and Israel independence days.“To me they [America and Israel] are unified by a common ideal – the fight for freedom. I am reminded of that parallel every year at this time. Israel and America are two bastions of liberty defending our common civilizations" he said.Here are 11 more similarities between the two democracies.
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Barbecues & picnics
Love of food is not unique to just one of these countries. Celebrating with food is a must, and people in both nations love their barbecues and picnics!
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Fireworks
No celebration is complete without fireworks to end the occasion with a bang.
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Flags everywhere
Patriotism is highly valued in both of these nations, and there can never be too many grand old flags waving in peace!
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Parties & dancing
Whether at a club or bar or in the middle of the streets, Americans and Israelis both love to celebrate their Independence Days by raising a glass to their countries as they dance to music.
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Beach parties
Both nations’ independence days fall in warmer months, perfect for beach days. Whether in LA or Cape Cod or Tel Aviv, people head to the beach on the 4th of July and Yom Ha’atzmaut for a relaxing day of enjoying freedom.
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Head of state speeches
The US President and Israeli Prime Minister will traditionally make Independence Day speeches celebrating their countries. Trump and Netanyahu have both made speeches this year for the 4th of July, and Netanyahu also spoke on Yom Ha’atzmaut, while Trump’s campaign wished Israel a chag sameach (happy holiday) on its independence day.
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Military celebrations
Military parades and honoring of soldiers commemorate the 4th of July in the US. On Yom Ha’atzmaut, the Israeli Air Force will fly-over several Israeli cities and there is a flag ceremony at Mt. Herzl in Jerusalem.
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Street celebrations
Parades in the US are complemented by festive rallies in the main squares in Israel.
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There’s drones
Maybe for different purposes, but they’re definitely there! In the US, drones often will record fireworks celebrations and take pictures at parties, and in Israel, drones are becoming ubiquitous.
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Meat
Even many non-meat eaters in Israel opt for some Kosher hot dogs on Yom Ha'atzmaut. Same goes in America for the Fourth of July, with special thanks to Hebrew National.
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Quality family time
One of the most beautiful activities to do on independence day is to celebrate with friends and family, and Americans and Israelis love to enjoy their nations’ freedoms with good company.