In the days of Bar Kokhba, Roman troops lit bonfires on hilltops and towers to be used as signals. Jews were forbidden to light bonfires, lest it become a military tactic. In Israel, people celebrate Lag Ba’Omer by lighting the once prohibited bonfires.

The Bar Kokhba revolt took place from 132 CE to 136 CE. Jews of the Judaea Province, led by Shimon bar Kosiba (also called Simon Bar Kokhba), rebelled against Emperor Hadrian. Bar Kokhba occupied Jerusalem and was responsible for many casualties among the Roman troops. The result of this uprising was the creation of an independent State of Israel.

In honor of Israel’s Jaffa oranges, here is a recipe for a truly 'sabra' Lag BaOmer treat. This year you can try buns cooked in orange peels in the embers.

Children can reenact the guerrilla warfare between Bar Kokhba’s forces and the Roman Legio X Fretensis with bows and arrows made from sticks.

Enjoy a dinner under the stars. Roast some treats in the embers of your bonfire. The traditional Israeli Lag Ba’Omer picnic is very simple.