As the holiday of Shavuot approaches, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) is unveiling a unique selection of rare archival photographs that offer a glimpse into Shavuot celebrations in pre-state Israel. Captured during the 1930s and 1940s, the images document festivities in Jerusalem, Haifa, Kibbutz Ramat Yohanan, Kibbutz Ramat David, and other communities across the country.
The photographs vividly portray children and young adults in festive attire, dancing and carrying traditional baskets filled with first fruits (bikkurim). In the Land of Israel, Shavuot took on renewed agricultural and symbolic meaning, celebrated in schools, kibbutzim, and cities as a reflection of national revival and a deep connection to the land.
Over time, a tradition developed in which bikkurim were sold during ceremonies in schools and community gatherings, with proceeds donated to KKL-JNF. The organization’s iconic blue collection box became a familiar fixture at these events, symbolizing a shared spirit of giving, cooperation, and dedication to land development. The newly released photographs reflect not only the joyful spirit of the holiday, but also the pioneering values that shaped Jewish life during that era.
“KKL-JNF extensively documented Shavuot celebrations in kibbutzim, moshavim, and urban centers,” says Efrat Sinai, Director of KKL-JNF Archives. “The holiday’s close connection to KKL-JNF’s core values, redeeming and developing the land—gave it deeper national significance. Our photo archive is one of the oldest and most comprehensive in Israel, containing hundreds of thousands of images chronicling the history of the “Yishuv”, its pioneers working the land, its leader, and daily life in the Land of Israel from the early 20th century to the present. We are committed to preserving, digitizing, and sharing these historical materials, which serve as a valuable resource for research, education, and inspiration for generations to come.”
