Passover in Israel was celebrated this year under complex security conditions. Nevertheless, approximately 1.5 million Israelis took the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, exploring forests and parks managed by Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael‒Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) throughout the country.
The Re’im Recreation Area, which features the Nova music festival memorial, attracted more than 7,000 visitors daily, making it one of KKL-JNF’s top destinations during the holiday.
Many visitors participated in special Passover activities organized by KKL-JNF at various sites across the country. These events included hiking and exploring forests, conducted in accordance with security guidelines. Festivals, performances, creative workshops and children’s plays drew large crowds, providing a family-friendly holiday experience outdoors from the north to the south.
Top destinations during the intermediate days of Passover included:
• North: Jordan Park, Switzerland Forest, Mevo Hama Forest, HaTkhelet Park, Goren Park, Adamit Park, Ein Zeitim Recreation Area, Parod Camping Park and KKL-JNF’s Hula Lake Park.
• Central Israel: Nahal HaShofet, Ilanot Arboretum, Ben Shemen Forest, Ayalon Canada Park, Britannia Park and Sataf.
• South: HaMalachim‒Shahariya Forest, Yatir Forest, Lahav Forest, Ofakim Park, Sharsheret Forest and the Re’im Recreation Area.
Throughout the holiday week, the organization hosted dozens of family-friendly events nationwide, most free of charge. Highlights included “A Sweet Forest” at Shoresh Overnight Camping Park; a spring nature celebration in central Israel; and special initiatives designed for people with disabilities. In addition, information and guidance stations were set up in major parks and forests to assist hikers.
KKL-JNF continues to maintain its parks and forests to provide safe, accessible green spaces for family recreation and hiking across Israel. It maintains campgrounds, plants trees, develops hiking and cycling trails, and improves accessibility for people with disabilities.