The sounds of music and singing filled the air in Rego Park and Forest Hills as families gathered for Chabad of Rego Park’s annual Lag BaOmer parade. Led by Rabbi Eli Blokh, the event also marked a major milestone: 28 years of Chabad’s work in the Queens community through Jewish education and outreach.
The festivities kicked off at Annadale Playground on Yellowstone Boulevard. Queens Shmira proudly led the way, escorting the group as the parade navigated through the streets. A Mitzvah Tank, a convertible, and clowns added to the atmosphere, joining the children as they waved flags and sang along the route before arriving at the Queens Jewish Center for a community barbecue and carnival.
The afternoon was packed with activity, from bouncy houses and raffles to a live show that kept the kids entertained. One of the most popular stations invited children to build their own edible "bonfires"—a sweet nod to the traditional holiday fires. Using graham crackers for a base and frosting to hold it together, the kids used pretzel sticks for logs and Mike and Ikes candies to represent the flames.
“I took special joy in creating my own little bonfire made of snacks,” said one youngster learning about Lag BaOmer for her first time. “Oh, what joy!”
The day brought neighbors from within the community together, celebrating the holiday with a sense of friendship that has become a hallmark of Chabad of Rego Park for nearly three decades.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
Marching With Joy Through Rego Park: Families Celebrate Lag BaOmer
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