Thursday, July 17, 2025
With participation from more than two dozen Jewish organizations and over 100 synagogues, the Israelfest Celebrate Israel Concert drew thousands to Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre on Sunday for what organizers called the largest celebration of Israel on Long Island.
The free festival, held June 8 from 4 to 8 p.m., was hosted in collaboration with the Jewish Community Relations Council–Long Island and blended Israeli music, culture, and community in a bold affirmation of unity, amid rising antisemitism and global unrest. Nassau County police officers were on-site to ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all.
“In a world of misinformation, Israelfest is a coming together of families and friends from across the Island who care about truth, who love Israel, and cherish its existence,” said David Black, executive director of Sid Jacobson JCC. “It is a grand statement that we not only dance again, but that we stand and sing in harmony with our brothers and sisters across the sea.”
Noam Buskila, a celebrated Israeli vocalist and IDF reservist, headlined a musical lineup that included Rick Recht and Hadar & Sheldon Low. U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, who represents New York’s 3rd Congressional District, was ceremonially honored for his steadfast support of Israel.
In addition to live performances, the event featured family-friendly activities, dancing, food vendors, shopping, and an inviting atmosphere for all ages.
“Israelfest provides the perfect opportunity for us to come together and embrace the spirit, culture, and resilience of Israel,” said Dagan Cohen, director and senior shaliach of the Randie Waldbaum Malinsky Center for Israel.
“Israelfest is a glowing celebration of unity and community spirit,” Lauren Chizner, director of Jewish Life + Learning at Sid Jacobson JCC, said. “As we gather across Long Island to honor Israel, we strengthen our connections, share in our pride, and build a future rooted in shared values and collective joy.”
Rona Blau, a Levittown resident who attended the event, spoke highly of the security measures taken to ensure the safety of those attending. “There’s policemen everywhere you look,” she said, “and they’re paying attention. I know it’s their job — but they’re doing a wonderful job, and I really do want to say thank you.”
The celebration was made possible through the support of UJA-Federation of New York and County Executive Bruce Blakeman, in partnership with the JCC Association of North America, The Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Long Island Jewish Coalition.
“This event is a message that our murdered brethren and the fallen in Israel will not have died in vain, and the hostages—those still living and those who were murdered — will not be forgotten,” Black said. We rejoice as we remember. We remember as we rejoice.”
