On Wednesday, May 7, the eve of the 60th anniversary of its rebirth in 1948, Israelis will celebrate with a countrywide series of firework, laser and light shows.
The 12-minute spectacles, which kick off at 10:30pm and will light up the skies above Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Ashdod, Netanya, Beersheba, Tiberias and Eilat, will feature elaborate fireworks, laser-light displays and celebratory music.
"In the past, major Independence Day events were usually held in just one or two cities," says Arie Sommer, Israel Tourism Commissioner for North and South America, "but this year the decision was made to expand the festivities, so that Israelis and tourists throughout the country can enjoy the spectacle."
In 2007, more Americans visited Israel than in any year in the nation's history, and for the first months of 2008, tourism is 51% up. "So it looks like the 60th anniversary year will be a bumper year for tourism," Sommer added.
