Bonfire on Miami Beach

Bais Menachem of Miami Beach, Florida proudly hosted its second annual Lag B’Omer Bonfire Bash which was truly a smashing success.

Beginning one hour after Shabbos, it was amazing how quickly the place filled up, as men women and children came flocking from the many different shuls and nearby cities.

A huge three story ‘orb light’ that could be seen from blocks away contributed to the exciting atmosphere and attracted many people to the event.

Quite apropos to the the theme of Lag B’Omer which is Ahavas Yisroel, the crowd was a beautiful mix of Lubavitchers, Serfardim, Bucharyins and Litvish, all celebrating together.

The festivities were initiated with the lighting of the bonfire by Rabbi Y.L. Schapiro, Rov of Bais Menachem.

As the crowd looked on, watching, everyone was eager to have their turn at roasting their “s’more” sandwiches.

The unique band, Hashir V’Hashevech amazed the crowd with their lively music and original lyrics.

As the dancing continued into the night, so did the all-you-can-eat buffet which consisted of pizza, wraps, salads and more.

And what is a bonfire without marshmallows? Of course those were given to all children along with a special spits to roast them, accompanied by a large bag of cotton candy.

The entertainment was non-stop with the highlight of the evening being the bungee jumping trampoline and Sumo wrestling matches. Adults and children alike enjoyed the outdoor fun, watching in amusement as members from the community wrestled for the prize of being the Sumo Champion while dressed up in a head to toe costume.

Hats off to Jonathan Goldberg for going undefeated the entire night! The bonfire bash concluded with a farbrengen led by Rabbi Y.L. Schapiro that lasted throughout the night.

A big Yasher Koach goes to the program organizers, Yossi and Batya Lipskar, Zalman and Mimi Fellig, Dr. Ami and Zmira Levine, Yakov and Brachie Garfinkel, and Shmuel and Aliza Bogomilsky.