Shavout in Israel in the 1930s and 1940s
Bikkurim celebrates the presentation of the first fruits coinciding with Shavuot.
KKL-JNF has unveiled photographs from the Bikkurim celebrations across the Land of Israel during the British Mandate era, preceding the establishment of the state, in anticipation of Shavuot.
Shavuot, one of the three pilgrimage festivals (Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot), was traditionally observed by the people of Israel in Jerusalem, marking the beginning of the first fruits season.
During the Mandate period, Shavuot was celebrated with vibrant costumes, parades, and dancing in the streets of major cities such as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa. Starting in the 1920s, KKL-JNF, through the teachers’ movement for KKL-JNF, imbued Shavuot with a new significance, symbolising the return to the homeland and the deepening connection to the land of Israel.
Efrat Sinai, Director of KKL-JNF’s Archives, said: “The ceremonies for presenting the Bikkurim (First-Fruits) were revived in cities and villages across the country. In Jerusalem, the Bikkurim were brought to the KKL-JNF building, while Tel Aviv featured grand stages, and Haifa celebrated with vibrant parades and street performances. The KKL-JNF photo archive serves as a captivating testament to the Jewish people’s presence in the Land of Israel in the early 20th century. As a tribute to Shavuot, we are delighted to unveil nostalgic photographs capturing the Bikkurim celebrations in the major cities during the British Mandate.”
Jerusalem 1937
Jerusalem 1930 Kindergarten children bring fruits
June 1931
June 1926
Haifa 1932
1925 Ein Hard
