Lag B'Omer 15 - 16 May 2025
What is Lag B’Omer in a nutshell
Lag B’Omer is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, which typically falls in late April or early May. The holiday has both historical and mystical significance. On a historical level, Lag B’Omer commemorates the end of a plague that killed thousands of disciples of the famous Jewish rabbi and scholar Rabbi Akiva in the 2nd century CE. On a mystical level, the holiday is associated with the teachings of the Kabbalah and the life of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a prominent Kabbalist who lived in the 2nd century CE and is believed to have written the Zohar, a foundational text of Jewish mysticism. Lag B’Omer is traditionally celebrated with bonfires, music, and dancing, and it is a popular day for weddings and other celebrations. In Israel, it is also a day for children to play with bows and arrows, a tradition that is believed to have originated with Rabbi Akiva’s students who used to practice archery as a way to defend themselves against Roman persecution.
The Kosher Hub have a fun fiery theme for Lag B’omer make this celebration MEMORABLE!
Lag B' Omer T Shirt
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Lag B' Omer Camping Mug
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Lag B' Omer Custom Poster
Get into the spirit of Lag B'Omer out there by the custom poster to keep your memories alive for years to come
Lag B' Omer Invitation Card
Get into the spirit of Lag B'Omer out there by the custom invitation card to impress your guests.
Lag B' Omer T Shirt
Get into the spirit of Lag B'Omer out there by the cute custom t shirt for years of memories
Lag B' Omer Custom Mug
Get into the spirit of Lag B'Omer out there by the bonfire with a custom Lag B'Omer mug for years of memories
Listen to what these You Tubers have to say about Lag B’Omer
What does a Lag B’Omer/Lag Bomer celebration typically look like?
Lag B’Omer parties can take many different forms depending on the community and the traditions observed. Here is an example of what might happen at a Lag B’Omer party:
- The party might take place outdoors, often around a large bonfire that symbolizes the end of the plague that killed Rabbi Akiva’s students.
- People might gather around the fire to sing and dance, often accompanied by live music or a DJ. Some traditional Jewish songs and dances are associated with Lag B’Omer, such as the “Bar Yochai” dance which celebrates the life of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai.
- Children might play games and sports such as tug-of-war, potato sack races, or three-legged races.
- Traditional Jewish foods might be served, such as roasted potatoes, marshmallows, hot dogs, and cotton candy.
- Some Lag B’Omer parties include religious rituals such as lighting candles, reciting prayers, and studying Jewish texts related to the holiday.
- In some communities, Lag B’Omer is also associated with the custom of giving children their first haircut, called a “chalaka.” This is often done in public at the party, with family and friends taking turns snipping a bit of the child’s hair.
Overall, Lag B’Omer is a time of joy and celebration in the Jewish calendar, and the party is a chance for people to come together, enjoy each other’s company, and mark the end of a somber period with a festive gathering.
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What do the ultra religious do at Lag B’Omer/Lag Bomer?
The Ultra-Orthodox, also known as Haredi Jews, have a strong connection to Lag B’Omer and often observe the holiday in unique and meaningful ways. Here are a few examples of what the Ultra-Orthodox might do at Lag B’Omer:
- Pilgrimage to Meron: Ultra-Orthodox Jews place great importance on the life and teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, and many make a pilgrimage to his tomb in Meron, Israel, on Lag B’Omer. The celebration at Meron can be intense and crowded, with tens of thousands of people coming together to sing, dance, and celebrate.
- Bonfires: The lighting of bonfires is a popular tradition among Ultra-Orthodox Jews on Lag B’Omer. Often, communities will gather around large bonfires and sing songs and dance together. In some cases, the bonfires are accompanied by speeches from rabbis or other religious leaders.
- Weddings: Lag B’Omer is considered an auspicious time for weddings, and Ultra-Orthodox Jews often schedule weddings on this day. These weddings are often elaborate affairs, with large crowds of guests, traditional Jewish music, and food.
- Haircuts: Some Ultra-Orthodox Jews follow the custom of giving children their first haircut on Lag B’Omer. This custom is known as “upsherin” and is often done when a boy turns three years old. The boy’s hair is cut in a traditional style, leaving curls at the sides, and the event is celebrated with family and friends.
- Study: Lag B’Omer is also a time for religious study and reflection among Ultra-Orthodox Jews. Many spend the day studying the teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai or other Jewish texts, often in groups with other scholars or students.
This funny Tik Toker looks like he gate crashed a Hardi Lag Bomer dance fest!
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