The Postville community was filled with excitement as the entire community – both the Lubavitcher community and other Jewish community members – together with children, families, and bochurim gathered for the annual Lag BaOmer parade, organized by Rabbi Mendel and Rabbi Shmuli Raices together with the local Cheder and Yeshiva.

The events of the day began the night before with a lively bonfire at the home of the Malinas family, where the entire community participated.

The following morning began with a lively rally, where the children stood together and recited the 12 pesukim. Special emphasis was placed on the fact that this year marks 50 years since the Rebbe launched the 12 pessukim.

The children also said Tehillim and each gave tzedakah, setting a tone of inspiration and unity.

The parade then set out from the local Cheder, with the procession making its way toward the fairgrounds. A full marching band led the parade, while the streets were lined with children marching together with their teachers, holding flags, banners, and colorful displays of Torah, mitzvos, and Jewish pride.

The parade included a wide range of vehicles, among them two ambulances and three decorated floats. One float was prepared by the Yeshiva and focused on the theme that one more mitzvah can bring Moshiach.

The second float, prepared by the girls school, highlighted 50 years of mivtza chinuch, emphasizing the importance of Jewish education and the 12 pesukim.

The third float, prepared by the boys school, marked 50 years connected to the Entebbe operation and mivtza mezuzah.

When the parade arrived at the fairgrounds, the celebration continued with another small rally before the children went on to enjoy the activities. Rabbi Gavriel Levin spoke and shared a short story. There were also raffles and big prizes, and pizza and burekas were distributed to all.

“It was very special to see the entire community join together for the parade,” Rabbi Aharon Shimmel told Anash.org. “The Rebbe said that Rashbi is by each parade, and that was definitely felt here.”

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