First of all I was surprised not to hear anything about this up coming event. I did not see any advertisements anywhere around the town.

It seemed that I was the only tourist who went and enjoyed this Yemenite festival.There must be plenty of tourists here in Eilat who would have loved to have seen what this festival was about, especially the foreigners to see and experience a bit more of Israel.
The festival traditionally draws thousands of Yemenites to Eilat from all over the country to celebrate together and enjoy their tradition.There is an opportunity to try their traditional foods, and join with them to dance and sing together.There were many famous singers on stage all night to entertain us.It was very nice to see how Yemenite families (of all ages) can enjoy themselves and celebrate together.It enhances the bond in the Yemenite community.

We don’t have anything like this in
Hungary where I am from.Since I was a child, different ages had different ways to celebrate.Sure Hungarians have traditional dance and food as well, but as far as I know we don’t celebrate them.If there is any kind of celebration of our traditional heritage, I don’t know about it.But we do have goulash! Ha-ha-ha!!!

It was wonderful to see such a happy spirit amongst these people.I enjoyed it very much!

Zita Sz.
Eilat-Today Team

(Photos courtesy of Eilat-Show)