Learning about different aspects of local culture is an important part of travel to any country, and Israel events, which abound across the country, are a great way to experience everyday life. There is something for every taste among the options for a festival in Israel, from family-oriented events to shoppers’ delights to nightlife entertainment. The Tel Aviv and Jerusalem events are among the most popular in the country, though visitors will find a host of other Israel events and festivals in most of the cities of Israel. An Israeli festival is almost always taking place at some point throughout the year, so whatever time of year you plan to visit, be sure to include one of these lively events on your itinerary of activities.

One of the most important Israel events takes place throughout the entire country: Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. This Jewish holiday takes place over a course of eight days in honor of the sacrifices made for the sake of faith and freedom; this is one of the biggest Jerusalem events, which also honors the liberation of the city.

In April, hundreds of pilgrims from faiths of every background travel to Israel for the Holy Week in Jerusalem, which is often one of the strongest spiritual journeys Christian travelers can take, following in the footsteps of Jesus when he experienced his Passion on the Cross; there are dozens of reenactments and celebrations taking place for the entire week until the biggest and most important celebration of all, Easter Sunday. A couple of daily Jerusalem events take place at the Western Wall, better known as the Wailing Wall, and the Dome of the Rock, where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son and where the prophet Mohammed was said to have ascended into heaven; all these sites are located on the Temple Mount, as is the al-Aqsa Mosque.

Israel Map

If you are ever in Tel Aviv in the springtime, typically in March, Purim is a fabulous religious festival, as are many a festival in Israel, but this one is unique in that much of the revelry of family celebrations spills out into the streets; if you can make it to Holon, along the coast, a grand parade takes place with jugglers and dancers. Blue is another popular festival in Tel Aviv that takes place in Old Jaffa, commemorating the ancient traditions of the Mediterranean maritime that today attracts so many visitors.

Each season has its own special event in honor of some special event; spring and winter are probably among the most important in religious celebrations. The previously mentioned Holy Week takes place during the week before Easter, and December is the other important month; it is a significant season for the three major religions in the area—Jewish, Muslim, and Christian. Hanukkah and Christmas take place within roughly the same timeframe, making this one of the most celebrated seasons throughout the year, and Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, occurs in the fall.

Wherever you go during your vacation, and whichever festival in Israel you may choose to attend, from Jerusalem events to events in Tel Aviv, your trip will surely be a memorable one.