Masses hit national parks, nature reserves

Hundreds of thousands of Israelis are celebrating Independence Day in the country's parks and nature reserves.

Shlomo Edelman, a high school yeshiva student from Nof Ayalon, won the International Bible Contest which was held in Jerusalem.

Kids sampling equipment in Kiryat Shmona (Photo: Avihu Shapira)

Among the most popular sites were Hurshat Tal, Lake Hula, the Aminadav Forest and the Sderot Park.

Thousands of Israelis also visited IDF exhibitions held in several bases across Israel. Armored vehicles and weaponry were on display for the general public to enjoy. Earlier on Tuesday, the Navy held a special showcase along the Mediterranean coast and in the bay of Eilat.

Smadar Schechter, El Al's first female pilot (Photo: Ofer Amram) 

Both IDF and private vessels took part in the naval show. They left Herzliya's marina and passed through Tel Aviv and Ashdod.

The Air Force also conducted its traditional flyover in the nation's skies.

Tens of thousands of travelers visited the Ashdod Port which hosted a mechanical equipment exhibit.

A Navy cruise ship display was also held at the site. El Al conducted a special exhibition at the Ben Gurion Airport featuring Smadar Schechter, the airline's first female pilot.

Hagai Einav, Ilana Curiel, Elior Levy and Yael Darel contributed to this report

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