Nearly a thousand children, parents, and grandparents took part in Chabad of Houston’s Lag B’Omer celebrations, with two packed events bringing together families and community members from across the city for a full day of achdus and entertainment.

The day began in the morning when close to 300 children and adults gathered for a Unity Rally at the Pulaski Rauch Auditorium, with three schools coming together – Beren Academy, Torah Day School, and Ohr Zahava.

The children eagerly recited the Twelve Pesukim together, gave tzedakah, and davened, all while enjoying live music and prizes.

In the afternoon, over 500 children, parents, and grandparents filled Godwin Park for a larger community celebration.

Rabbi Shmuli Slonim, shliach at Rice University, called up twelve children to lead the recitation of the Twelve Pesukim – with special emphasis this year marking exactly fifty years since the Rebbe first introduced the campaign.

Rabbi Moishe Traxler, director of Chabad Outreach of Houston, led the children in Sefiras HaOmer, counting the 33rd day of the Omer.

The shluchim also shared reflections on the life and teachings of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai and his enduring legacy. The crowd sang Sheyibaneh and davened for the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash and the coming of Moshiach.

A Lag B’Omer parade then began as the huge crowd marched through the park to the sounds of a live brass ensemble playing Bar Yochai.

Popular singer Yoni Z entertained the crowd with lively music and niggunim, accompanied by a live band. The atmosphere was joyful as participants danced with nonstop energy throughout the afternoon.

A highlight of the celebration was the upsherin of three-year-old Betzalel Ephraim Cotlar.

Children and families kept busy throughout the afternoon with bouncy inflatables, a train ride, and plenty of snacks. Raffle tickets were also distributed to children and families throughout the event, with a large raffle held at the end featuring generous prizes donated by Jumbo Judaica.

Photos: HAGIT photography, locals