The Jewish community of Fountain Hills gathered in celebration of Lag Ba’Omer on the evening of Thursday, May 15, marking the day with joyous unity, traditional food and a spirited sense of pride.
Hosted by Chabad of Fountain Hills, the event brought together locals for a BBQ at Fountain Park, part of a global network of celebrations inspired by the teachings of the late Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, founder of the Chabad movement.
Lag Ba’Omer commemorates two significant events in Jewish history: the end of a deadly plague among Rabbi Akiva’s students over 2,000 years ago and the passing of the great sage and mystic Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, renowned author of the Zohar, the foundational text of Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), according to a press release.
Against the scenic backdrop of Fountain Park, attendees enjoyed a classic kosher BBQ. The family-friendly event welcomed guests of all ages to join in an evening of community spirit and celebration.
“Lag Ba’Omer is a time to focus on living proudly as a Jew and remembering that our unity is what makes us strong,” said Rabbi Mendy Lipskier, director of Chabad of Fountain Hills. “This holiday reminds us of the power of togetherness, tradition, and joy.”
The Fountain Hills gathering was one of thousands of similar events held around the world by Chabad-Lubavitch, aimed at strengthening Jewish identity, education, and pride through meaningful, inclusive experiences.