KNOXVILLE (WVLT) – Israel celebrated six decades of statehood on May 14th.

Over the weekend, Knoxville's Jewish Community marked the diamond anniversary with a festival of its own. Before Sunday’s rains moved into the area, members of the Arnstein Community Center marched 1.948 kilometers through the Deane Hill community, representing the year Israel gained independence from the temporary rule of the British Mandate.

After the march they returned to the community center where kids participated in a variety of fun activities including a moon bounce and camel rides. The event also offered traditional food and wine along with folk dancing.

A diplomat from Israel’s consulate in Atlanta even came up to five a briefing on the nation.

“What we are doing this year is we are celebrating Israel at 60,” said Jeff Gubitz, executive director of the Knoxville Jewish Alliance, “and we will offer a whole series of programs and cultural events all during the year."

You can find out more information about Knoxville's Jewish community and the 60th anniversary of Israel's independence by clicking on the links below.