Special Events in Jerusalem During Chanukah
If you have ever been to Israel during Chanukah, you know how special it is to be there at that time. Walk around the streets of Jerusalem in the early evenings and see the candlelight burning in each apartment’s window. Smell the latkes (potato pancakes) frying in each home and enjoy a sufganiyah (doughnut will fillings) from a bakery of your choice. But don’t forget to take in the special Chanukah events that happen every year in Israel.
Jerusalem Chanukah Traditions and Events
Menorah Tours
Jerusalem’s Old City tours are a must-see the entire year, but there are special exhibits during Chanukah that you won’t want to miss. Walk through the Jewish Quarter’s alleys to view the different menoras. Then go underneath the Old City for the menorah tour in the tunnels.
Festival
This annual event has been happening on Chanukah for decades. It is a song and dance show for children, complete with costumes and celebrities. This show will enhance any family’s Chanukah experience.
Restaurants
One of the Chanukah traditions is that Jerusalem restaurants will offer special discounts and special food options during this holiday. Try soup served in a bread bowl or the different toppings of the round doughnuts served during this time of year at all the bakeries.
Museums
Each Jerusalem museum has something special this time of year. Whether you see the juggling act at the Israel Museum, take an investigative tour around the Museum of Italian Jewish Art, or craft personalized coins inspired by the Maccabees in Ein Yael, Chanukah will certainly be a memorable time for you to visit Israel, and especially Jerusalem.
Western Wall Candle Lighting
Every night of Chanukah you can watch the candle lighting at the Western Wall on the huge Menorah set up for everyone to see. Sing Chanukah songs and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Montefiore Windmill Complex
Enjoy many different activities at this new complex set up at Jerusalem’s Windmill. Adults can try some wine while the kids are crafting their own Menorahs. The entire family can enjoy an escape room as well.
Where to Stay in Jerusalem
There are many options for hotels in Jerusalem. The trick is to figure out which one suits your needs the best. There are boutique hotels in and around the Old City. For example, the Mount Zion Boutique Hotel is a unique option that is located almost adjacent to the Old City walls.
There are other gorgeous hotels in the area that are part of Israel hotel chains that offer close proximity to the important sites and of course, a full buffet breakfast in the morning. Many of these hotels have discounts and special deals during the holidays and Chanukah time is no exception.
Visit Israel during the Chanukah season and take in all Jerusalem has to offer. Stay in the lap of luxury in a hotel of your choosing and relax and enjoy the sites during this wonderful time of year.
