Thousands Celebrate Lag Ba’omer in Melbourne

Thousands of people took part in the Lag Ba’omer Parade & Fair, organised by Chabad Youth of Melbourne this past Sunday.  The parade, which was the first to take place in the world, united men, women and children in the streets of Melbourne, Australia for a day of Jewish unity and pride.

The parade kicked off with opening remarks from Rabbi Tzvi Telsner of the Yeshivah Centre. This was followed by some important messages from various local politicians and dignitaries. They mentioned how fortunate we are to live in a society like Australia and how we are able to celebrate Lag Ba’omer in such a public manner. The speeches concluded with a short message from Rabbi CT Groner, who emphasized the importance of Lag Ba’omer and the life of Rashbi.

A selection of children from various day schools in Melbourne recited the 12 Pesukim. The crowds comprising of students from Yeshivah College, Yeshivah Gedolah, Beth Rivkah, Ohel Chana, Chabad House families, Lag Ba’omer Parade participants and spectators responded enthusiastically.

The parade then began, with the theme focusing on Jewish history and identity, boasting no less than sixty different floats and groups of marching students and children. Check out the photos below to get a glimpse of what went on.

After marching to an adjacent street, the festivities continued with children’s rides, live music and a petting zoo. The fair also contained a large sports zone, with cricket, soccer and AFL games. Families also enjoyed the large selection of lunch options available in the food court that was set up for the day.

A special thank you goes to Moshe and Dina Kahn – Directors of Chabad Youth Melbourne, as well as Naomi Joseph – Program Co-ordinator, Menachem and Miri Lipskier – Tzivos Hashem Directors and Didi Levin – Group Coordinator, who together with a supporting army of dedicated volunteers made the event a reality.

Photos by Menachem Aron – Maron Photography, Michelle Blutman, Pinny Biber and A. Aron