Families flocked to Nostrand Avenue on Sunday for the annual Israel Celebration — which featured carnival rides, clowns, delicious food, and inflatables.
Hosted by the Kings Bay Y, the event between Avenues U and V in Sheepshead Bay drew thousands of Jewish families who played games, enjoyed the sunny afternoon, and got up close with adorable animals in the petting zoo.
“The petting zoo was my son’s favorite part,” said Ronit Roditi. “It was really nice that they were very close and got to touch all the animals.”
And kids couldn’t resist the inflatable rides, all of which had an Israeli twist, such as the Golan Hike obstacle course, and the Bounce in the Dead Sea Castle.
“We’re the largest festival in Brooklyn celebrating Israel, and we’re really proud to bring a taste of Israel to the South Brooklyn community,” said Leonard Petlakh, executive director of the Kings Bay Y.
Brooklyn idols: Bethany Stucker, 12, and Timothy Tsipenyuk, 12, jam out to a Bon Jovi cover at the festival.
Photo by Steve Solomonson
Chow down: Marine Park’s Daniel Freilich, 6, celebrates Israel with a big chomp on a slice of kosher pizza.
Photo by Steve Solomonson
Clowning around: Otsie Kerplotsie entertains kids with his silly antics.
Photo by Steve Solomonson
Weee!: Max Yedid swoops down the huge slide at the celebration.
Photo by Steve Solomonson
What’s up doc?: Julia Hurynovich cuddles a baby rabbit.
Photo by Steve Solomonson
Aaron Roditi and his mother Ronit get a close-up with birds and a turtle.