Lag Ba’Omer at Migdal Ohr is always more than just a celebration. It’s a day the children wait for all year long! Filled with music, bonfires, and joy, the holiday brings out our love for the inner warmth and fire of the Zohar, revealed by the safe and spiritual giant, Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (the Rashbi).

Located just steps from Mt. Meron, where the Rashbi is buried, Migdal Ohr is steps away from the Lag Ba’Omer celebrations that bring throngs of visitors from across Israel and even around the world. Every year, hundreds of thousands travel to Meron to honor the yartzeit of the Rashbi, with bonfires, weekend long campouts, celebrations that start the night of Lag BaOmer but last all week long.

This year, due to security concerns, Mt. Meron was closed to visitors who had planned to make the annual pilgrimage.

Despite the restrictions, Rabbi Grossman and his brother, Rabbi Yaakov Grossman, were among the few individuals granted permission by police and government officials to light a bonfire at the kever of the Rashbi. Together, they offered heartfelt prayers for the People of Israel, peace in the region, and the safety of Israel’s security forces.

Back on campus, Migdal Ohr’s students celebrated the spirit of the day in their own meaningful way. Older students built a special tent centered around the values of loving kindness and performed plays inspired by the stories and teachings of the great rabbis. Across campus, children participated in hands-on activities including a Lag Ba’Omer trivia challenge, a gratitude-focused blessing party, and a personal tefillah-writing workshop that encouraged reflection and connection.

As the sun set, the celebration came alive with singing, dancing, barbecues, and bonfires lighting up the night sky. As children who live in the north of Israel, yearround, the illustrious grave of the Rashbi is a point of immense pride.

Lag Ba’Omer this year took on new meaning. It gave our children a sense of representing to something eternal, a living chain of tradition and values that continues to shine brightly, even in challenging times. We pray that next year, we'll return to the grave of the Rashbi with even bigger celebrations!

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