The biggest celebration of the Hebrew language ever held in North America kicked off a week ago in New York City with an ambitious two­ week series of programs and experiences for scholars, students, culture vultures, and families throughout the New York metro area.

The Hagigah Ivrit festival features a broad array of literary, culinary, musical, cinematic, educational events, as well as several ongoing exhibitions and special programs for young children, that will engage their audiences in the beauty and history of the Hebrew language and culture.

The festival, which runs through March 30th, is sponsored by The Council for Hebrew Language and Culture in North America, the World Zionist Organization, The Steinhardt Foundation for Jewish Life, and the Israeli­American Council.

For a full listing of the program schedule and more background on the festival, please visit: www.ivritny.org