With the Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah celebration over in Israel, the country is celebrating Simchat Torah through Hakafot Sheniot, dancing and processions with Torah scrolls, around the country. Large crowds are taking part in Tel Aviv's Rabin Square and Jerusalem's Liberty Bell Park. Israel's chief rabbis and President Shimon Peres were scheduled to appear at the park.

The family of newly-released hostage Gilad Shalit said he finds it difficult to take part in such massive events, so he'll miss the one in his hometown of Mitzpe Hila.