Thousands Celebrate Hakafot Shniot in Kiryat Carmel

Thousands of residents gathered on the evening of Simchat Torah in Kiryat Carmel for the Hakafot Shniot (Second Circuit) celebration, held at the Bridge of Strings parking lot. The event, marked by a festive and emotional atmosphere, saw thousands of participants, including families, children, and youth, come together to dance and rejoice with the Torah scrolls.

The attendees enjoyed music, singing, and dancing throughout the evening, in an event that fostered unity, tradition, and community connection among the city's diverse populations. Mayor Dudu Cohen stated, "This evening is a moving expression of the unity in Kiryat Carmel. Seeing thousands of residents from all the city's communities, together with the city's rabbis, celebrating Simchat Torah in an atmosphere of respect, connection, and great joy, this is the spirit we seek to strengthen in our city." He thanked the city's rabbis for their partnership, the Religious Council, and all who contributed to the event's success, emphasizing that the city's strength lies in its ability to come together.

Rami Almogor, Chairman of the Religious Council of Kiryat Carmel, added, "There is nothing more joyful than seeing thousands of residents, adults and children, celebrating the joy of the Torah. Hakafot Shniot express the connection to tradition, community, and Jewish joy." He also thanked all participants and helpers.

The celebration, a joint effort by the Kiryat Carmel Municipality and the Religious Council, concluded a month of High Holiday events in the city. These included Selichot prayers, olive harvests, the Ein Kdam march, a Four Species market, children's events, and Simchat Torah festivities. The municipality highlighted that many of these events have become new urban traditions, reflecting the spirit of a city that celebrates together, connects people and communities, and creates lasting memories.