Lag B’Omer

‘Our dancing has turned into mourning’: For Orthodox Jews, a night of festivity and healing becomes an unspeakable tragedy

After so much suffering during the pandemic, the haredi community is grieving yet again on what was supposed to be a joyous day.

Mourners gather during the funeral of one of those who died in a stampede during the Jewish religious festival of Lag Ba'Omer at the Jewish Orthodox pilgrimage site of Mount Meron in Israel on April 30, 2021. (Ilia Yefimovich/picture alliance via Getty Images)

What is Israel’s Mount Meron and why were so many Orthodox Jews gathered there for the Lag b’Omer holiday?

Long before the Lag b’Omer stampede, Israel’s Mount Meron was home to a mix of tragedy and euphoria. A similar disaster took place there exactly 110 years ago.

At least 45 people dead in stampede at mass Lag b’Omer holiday celebration in Israel

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed an investigation and announced a national day of mourning on Sunday.

Global

Police called to Lag b’Omer gatherings in London that ignored social distancing rules

Drivers celebrating Lag B'Omer at a festive convoy through the Hungarian capital on May 12, 2020. (Andras D. Toth)

Global

Banned from gathering because of coronavirus, Budapest Jews celebrate Lag b’Omer with convoy and blasting music

Israel

Hundreds of haredi Orthodox in Israel set bonfires despite national ban

Global

Lag b’Omer is traditionally a day of Jewish weddings. What will happen under social distancing?

Israel

Coronavirus strikes again: Israel bans traditional bonfires for Lag b’Omer

Israel

Extreme heat wave throughout Israel casts pall on Lag b’Omer bonfires

Global

At least 30 injured in Lag b’Omer bonfire explosion in London

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