Hundreds Celebrate Joyous Lag B’Omer Parade in London
This past Friday, the streets of London were filled with joy, music, and Jewish pride as over 400 children, joined by hundreds of adults and enthusiastic onlookers, participated in the annual Lag B’Omer Parade. This cherished tradition, first held in 1960, has become a central celebration in London’s Jewish calendar, continuing to inspire generations of children and families.
Organised by Rabbi Sholem Ber Sudak and Rabbi Mendel Sudak, Lubavitch Stamford Hill, together with their wives and the team at Lubavitch Children’s Centre, the parade celebrated Jewish unity, Torah values, and the legacy of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai.
The event was deeply inspired by the vision and leadership of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, who passionately encouraged public Lag B’Omer parades as a way to foster Jewish pride and strengthen children’s connection to their heritage. The Rebbe viewed children as the guarantors of the Jewish future and urged communities around the world to organise festive, meaningful events on Lag B’Omer that would uplift and empower young boys and girls to live proudly as Jews. The London parade continues to follow in this tradition, bringing the Rebbe’s message to life with vibrant Jewish expression and unity in the heart of the city.
Leading the parade was a newly wrapped Mitzvah Tank, specially decorated in time for Lag B’Omer. Marching proudly behind were children from across the community, each holding handmade banners promoting Mitzvos, which they had prepared in advance. These banners brought a meaningful and colourful expression of the children’s enthusiasm for Jewish life and practice.
The children joyfully recited the 12 Pesukim, while crowds lined the streets to cheer them on. A highlight was the Year 8 boys’ marching band, whose lively performance added energy and excitement to the atmosphere. The parade was further enlivened by eight cheerful clowns, delighting participants of all ages with their humour and vibrant costumes.
Live music was performed by singer Mendel Moses and talented musician Meni Dubrawsky, who brought ruach and rhythm to the entire event.
A particularly moving moment came when Levi Ganz, who had just turned three, celebrated his upsherin (first haircut) on stage, with Dayan Raskin honoured to give the first snip—bringing smiles to the crowd and adding a personal, memorable touch to the day.
Behind the scenes, numerous bochurim worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of the event, assisting with setup, logistics, and coordination—all under the dedicated guidance of Meir Sudak. Their dedication and effort played a key role in the event’s success.
Rabbi Brandman addressed the crowd with uplifting words, encouraging the children to internalise the spirit of Lag B’Omer and proudly live as ambassadors of Torah and mitzvos.
With beautiful weather, a strong sense of unity, and participation from across the UK—including guests from as far as Gateshead—this year’s Lag B’Omer Parade was a powerful reminder of the strength, joy, and enduring legacy of Jewish pride in London.
