Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day) Date in the current year: May 12, 2024

Yom Hazikaron is observed on the day before Independence day. It was first observed on this day in 1953 and became Israel's official Memorial Day in 1963. It has been traditionally dedicated to those who fell since 1860, when Jews were first allowed to live in Palestine. In 2000, the scope of the memorial expanded to include civilians slain by the acts of Palestine political violence and terrorism in general.

Public commemoration of Memorial Day includes national memorial services, private remembrance gatherings at cemeteries, praying for the souls of the fallen soldiers, and two-minute sirens marking moments of silence. The official ceremony that marks the opening of Yom Hazikaron takes place at the Western Wall in Jerusalem with the flag of Israel flying at half-mast.

The official closure of Yom Hazikaron is marked by the official ceremony of Israel Independence Day. It takes place at the Israel's national cemetery on Mount Herzl. The state flag is returned to full staff.