Montrealers Parade in the Rain

By COLlive reporter
Photos by Sender Zirkind

The Chabad community in Montreal, one of the only cities in the world which organizes a grand parade whether it’s Sunday or in middle of the week, celebrated Lag BaOmer despite the rain.

1,000 people of all ages showed up in the rain for the event that began in front of the Cote S. Luc City Hall in a display of Jewish unity and pride, as instructed by the Rebbe.

Young students recited the 12 Pesukim followed by greetings from Chabad dayan Rabbi David Raphael Banon and elective officials. 10 car floats and a creative float prepared by bochurim of the Yeshiva Zal led the parade.

Children marching held signs in both English and French calling to “Learn Torah” and “Love your fellow Jew” as they walked down Cavendish Boulevard to Wager Park.

At the park, over 15 inflatables, circus performers, pony rides, petting zoo, horse rides and train rides and free gifts awaited the excited and eager Jewish children.

The organizer Rabbi Dovid Cohen emceed the rally and greeted participants to the festival honoring Rabbi Shimon bar Yochei‘s yahrzeit.

He thanked Head Shliach Rabbi Berel Mochkin and to the dedicated bochurim Yisroel Cohen, Zalmy Cohen, Mendy Heber, Chaim Heber and Mordechy Amzalag.