On April 29th, 2012, Asheville welcomes the 8th annual celebration of Israel’s Independence Day (it’s 64 this year) at Congregation Beth Israel from 11am-3:30 pm.

Since 2004, the festival has provided the finest Israeli food and drink, unique live entertainment, and a steady stream of Middle Eastern festival fun for all ages.

Proceeds from the Celebration Israel Festival fund many synagogue programs, primarily those benefiting children and families. This year, a donation is also planned for the New Israel Fund, an organization committed to religious pluralism in Israel.

Festival organizers are particularly pleased with the support the festival enjoys from a number of Asheville faith communities. You certainly don’t have to be Jewish to partake in this event. The entire Asheville community enjoys the festivities.

“Israel stands at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. Its culture has been enriched by immigrants from Poland to Ethiopia, Siberia to Morocco. How is that for bringing diverse populations to a celebration of Israel?” shrugs Sally Gooze, coordinator of this year’s festival. Gooze and nearly 40 volunteers have gone to great lengths to seek out talented local performers and artists, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Jewish Community Center sponsors its annual Falafel 5K & Camp Ruach Fun Run the morning of the festival. The 5K begins and ends at the JCC, while the Fun Run takes place at Weaver Park. Participants enjoy a free meal or children’s activities at Celebration Israel at the conclusion of their respective athletic events. “It’s thrilling each year to see how much fun the families have participating together,” says Rochelle Reich, coordinator of the running events. “The JCC events bring ‘em all in hungry, and Celebration Israel delivers an afternoon of food and fun!”

For information about the festival, contact celebrationisrael@gmail.com.

Like us at facebook.com/celebrationisrael for special offers and early-bird announcements in the coming weeks.