In an effort to allow the public to arrive calmly and safely to the highly anticipated bonfire lighting led by the renowned mashpia, Rav Meilech Biderman, organizers have announced that the event will begin at 1:30 a.m. The lighting will take place at the expanded hilula site in Meron on the night of Lag Ba’omer.
This massive hadlakah, often described as the largest in the world, draws tens of thousands of participants each year, as Rav Meilech ignites hearts and souls through his fiery devotion and stirring presence.
Following consultations with security and logistics personnel, event planners made the decision to delay the start time in order to minimize crowding and reduce pressure on arriving attendees.
Minister Meir Porush, who oversees the planning and management of the hilula of Rav Shimon bar Yochai in Meron, appointed Binyamin Kar to coordinate the preparations for the lighting ceremony. Kar will serve as the central figure liaising with all relevant agencies and authorities involved in the event.
Organizers issued the following statement to the public: “The large venue is fully prepared to receive participants. Please follow the instructions of the event marshals, maintain order, avoid arriving during peak congestion hours, and do not push or cause any danger, G-d forbid. Every effort has been made to ensure that the public can participate in the celebration of Rav Shimon bar Yochai with true joy and complete safety.”

{Matzav.com Israel}