Not just hakafot on Simchat Torah: The southern city opens its gates to the younger generation

Three years after October 7, Sderot will hold Simchat Torah events focused on teenagers, pre-military academy students, and youth movement members, including prayers, hakafot, and discussion meetings. The events, taking place on October 3, 2026, aim to fill the streets with people and community, integrating the younger generation into the city's story of revival.

Three years after the October 7 attack, which occurred on the morning of Simchat Torah, Sderot continues its process of revival. The city, which suffered heavy losses on that Saturday, is opening its holiday events this year for the first time, focusing on teenagers, pre-military academy students, and youth movement members from all sectors of Israeli society. Thousands of visitors are expected to arrive in the city during the holiday. Beyond prayers and hakafot, this year's focus will include a series of discussion meetings at various locations throughout Sderot, dealing with burning issues in Israeli society and among young people in particular. The highlight will be the second hakafot on the evening after the holiday. The deputy mayor was quoted as saying it is a "time of meeting, life, and revival." The events will take place on the holiday of Simchat Torah 5787, October 3, 2026. Registration and arrival for teenagers are only in organized groups accompanied by a teacher, educator, or guide.