We’ve mentioned this a number of times in the past (and I’m sure will do so again in the future), one of the fun aspects of our travels is to come across an unanticipated happenstance while on our way to a planned destination. Well..., as we were heading to explore New York’s Central Park, we came upon barricades along 5th Avenue. It seems that we had arrived just at the start of the “Israel 70th Independence Day Parade.” This, apparently, was a big event. Organized by the Israeli Ministry of Culture, New York’s Israeli Consulate, and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, this turned out to be a five hour Parade. With at least a dozen marching bands, nearly three dozen floats and other vehicles, and too many marching groups to count, this was huge! Among the special guests in the parade was Miri Regu, the Israeli Minister of Culture, along with a delegation from the government of Israel; New York Governor Andrew Cuomo; New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio; as well as numerous State Senators/Assemblymen and New York City Council members (and thanks to the signs that told us who everyone was). The atmosphere was absolutely electrified with enthusiasm and excitement. We had a great time! Central Park will have to wait for another day.
Inspite of the small protest, the celebration of Isreal’s Independance Day was fun.