Burning Man to host powerful tribute to victims and survivors of Israel’s Nova Festival

‘Nova Heaven’ combines a vibrant replica tent, angelic figures, and messages of resilience, offering a space for reflection at Burning Man.

This year’s Burning Man festival in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert features a powerful and deeply emotional tribute dedicated to the victims of the tragic attack at the Nova Festival in Israel on October 7. The installation, titled Nova Heaven, is a heartfelt commemoration that seeks to honor the memories of those who lost their lives and to celebrate the enduring resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

The centerpiece of Nova Heaven will be a detailed replica of the vibrant multi-colored tent that stood as a central feature at the original Nova festival. This tent, once a symbol of celebration and community, now serves as a poignant reminder of the joy and connection that was tragically disrupted. Alongside the tent, a large gate-shaped art piece will be prominently displayed, bearing the inscription “We Will Dance Again.” This powerful message has become a rallying cry for both survivors and supporters, symbolizing the community’s collective determination to reclaim joy, unity, and the spirit of celebration in the aftermath of loss.

In a deeply symbolic gesture, the installation also features 405 laser-cut angel figures, each one representing a life tragically cut short. These angelic forms will be arranged in a way that evokes both memory and reverence. Adding to the emotional depth of the installation, a spiral staircase will be adorned with 100 messages of hope, love, and resilience, written in both English and Hebrew. Messages such as “love conquers all” and “compassion unites us” will offer visitors a space for reflection and contemplation, inviting them to connect with the universal themes of healing and solidarity.

Nova Heaven also acts as a space for active engagement, hosting a series of events designed to foster connection, healing, and community. Israeli DJs will perform at the site, bringing music and rhythm back to the heart of the gathering, while Noah Katz will offer a handpan music set, and David Shemesh will provide a healing gong performance. These sound experiences are intended to soothe and uplift, creating a space where attendees can process their emotions and find solace.

Adding to the immersive atmosphere, several of Burning Man’s famous “art cars” are expected to visit the Nova Heaven installation, contributing to the lively and dynamic environment. These mobile art pieces, known for their creativity and spectacle, will enhance the sense of communal celebration and remembrance.

This tribute has been thoughtfully organized and brought to life by survivors and producers of the original Nova festival, with the support and participation of the wider Burning Man community. Through a successful GoFundMe campaign, nearly $100,000 has been raised to fund the creation and installation of this memorial.

Ultimately, Nova Heaven aims to serve as a space for reflection, healing, and connection. It offers a place where all participants can come together to honor the memories of those lost, while also looking forward with hope and resilience, united in the belief that even in the face of tragedy, the human spirit will continue to rise.

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Emily Harvey

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