Yom Avatiyach 2026!

Co-Director Michelle Sugarman reports on one of her favorite days of the kayitz: Yom Avatiach!

On August 3, we celebrated one of our most beloved camp traditions — Yom Avatiach (Watermelon Day)! Over the years, Yom Avatiach has become one of the most anticipated days on our camp calendar, and this year was no exception.

The day kicked off in a sea of red, pink, and green as chanichim (campers) and tzevet (staff) arrived at aruchat boker (breakfast) dressed in their best watermelon-inspired outfits. From festive hats and T-shirts to full-on watermelon costumes, everyone embraced the theme!

Watermelon made a starring appearance at every meal throughout the day, including the fan-favorite watermelon feta salad and refreshing watermelon Italian ices for dessert.

As always, the highlight of the day was the annual watermelon carving contest. Staff members brought their creativity to life with incredible carvings that ranged from adorable animals to animated characters and everything in between. The finished masterpieces were displayed for all to admire before campers and staff cast their votes to crown this year’s carving champion.  (See the photo at the top of this blog for the top 3 carved watermelons, as voted by campers & staff!)

It was a fabulously fruity day filled with laughter, creativity, and plenty of watermelon! We’re already counting down the days until we celebrate Yom Avatiach again next August 3!