Special Parade Livens Jerusalem

The Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem’s annual carnival is known to bring smiles and break divisions. This year of Hakhel was no exception.

This past Thursday, Lag B’omer, the streets of central Jerusalem were transformed into a cacophony of drums, music and laughter.

With the President’s house as the backdrop and the starting point of the FC annual Parade, Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem and those from surrounding communities proudly marched down “President’s Street” towards Sokolov park to the beat of the popular drummer boys. The atmosphere was buzzing. The usually dapper, donnish, quiet neighborhood was alive with action. There was a twinkle in the eyes of the onlookers upon seeing people of all abilities walking hand-in-hand.

But the fun had only just begun. Talbiya’s neighborhood park on Sokolov was this year’s venue for the FC carnival, inviting Jerusalem and FC children to enjoy together.

A magnificent array of activities had been prepared to greet the crowd. Just about everything a good carnival should have; Spray the Clown, licorice races and shave the balloon races were some of the many booths that kept the participants entertained for hours.

Along with the many incredible volunteers who manned booths, kept everyone cool and the atmosphere rocking, the Friendship Circle children played and competed in a way no one ever would have imagined.

Others rushed towards the petting zoo, playing with the hamsters, ducks and other animals. Face painting, games, arts and crafts were also an attraction. Parents had a chance to just relax, chatting among themselves and with Friendship Circle staff, who as usual, were welcoming all and one with unparalleled hospitality.

A grand raffle offered large Play mobil games, Sifrei Kodesh, an IPad, 2 nights in a five start hotel and more.

The day came to an end with an animal circus performance where the children were mesmerized by 2 gigantic, tamed white dogs jumping through hoops and dancing to the music. Nobody, including the adults and organizers wanted this special day to end. “It was hard for me to leave the park” one mother exclaimed. “There was such a relaxed, yet charged atmosphere. Every age group had some sort of entertainment and each child had such a great time! We stayed there long past the time when all was shut down and cleaned up, as no one wanted that feeling to end.”

“An amazing day. The event oozed with unity from start to finish,” said another attendee. “It like being part of one big family… called Friendship Circle.”

For more information, to get involved in Buddy Baseball or Friendship Circle in any capacity, please visit www.fcjerusalem.org.