Israel Events and Festivals
January
Classical Musical Festival
Held at the Tel Aviv Museum, the Classical Musical Festival hosts a full programme of classical symphonies as well as other musical events such as jazz concerts.
 International Tiberias Marathon
For nearly three decades this 12-kilometre race follows a stunning course along the shoreline of the Sea of Galilee, winding through ancient historical landmarks in the Jordan Valley. Liturgical Festival of Choral Music The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra performs choral masterpieces along with leading world singers
March
Jerusalem International Book Fair
Held at the International Convention Centre, this huge book fair offers a wide variety of genres and languages, drawing international crowds every year.
Tel Aviv Half Marathon
Runners from all over take part in the Tel Aviv Half Marathon.
Tel Aviv Mini Carnival
To celebrate the joyous Purim holiday, Tel Aviv hosts a mini-carnival.
May
Independence Day Gala Concert
May 14, 1948 marks the birth of Israel, celebrated with a gala concert staged in Tel Aviv.
Israel Festival
The nation’s premier artistic festival is held in Jerusalem, showcasing music, dance and theatre.
June
 Cherry Festival
At cherry season’s peak, an abundance of cherry-based foods star at this event in Tel Aviv.
 International Folklore Festival
Through June and July, the International Folklore Festival unfolds all over Israel, promising a good time to all.
International Ethnic Food Fair
A delectable event, ethnic foods from around the world are on offer at Jaffa Port in Tel Aviv.
International Film Festival
Held in Tel Aviv, this film festival features new and original Israeli films, along with international actors and directors.
Khutzot Hayotzer Arts and Crafts Fair
Handmade items along with nightly entertainment are presented in Jerusalem.
August
Jaffa Nights
Jaffa Nights offers music, theatre and entertainment in the square of Old Jaffa.
 Phenomena Festival
Great for children and families, the Phenomena Festival presents a variety of puppet and other visual theatrical performances in Jerusalem.
September
Leonard Bernstein International Oratorio
The Leonard Bernstein International Oratorio and song competition takes place in Jerusalem throughout the month of September and into October, followed by the Leonard Bernstein Composing Competition, also in Jerusalem.
October
 Israel Wine Festival
Held in Jerusalem, Israeli and foreign participants enjoy sipping wine, tasting cheese and sharing laughs with some of the world's best chefs.
Christian Celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles
The Jerusalem International Convention Centre hosts the Christian Celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles.
Suzanne Dellal International Dance Competition
The Suzanne Dellal Dance Centre in Tel Aviv hosts this exciting competition, along with other dance events throughout the year.
November
International Guitar Festival
The International Guitar Festival takes place in Tel Aviv.
December
 Choirs From Around the World
A pre-Christmas gala performance takes place in Jerusalem.
National Holidays
March: Purim*
April: Pesach (Passover)*
April/May: Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day)*
May/June: Shavu’ot (Pentecost)*
September 24-25: Rosh Hashana (New Year)
October 2: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)
October 6-13: Sukkot (Tabernacles)
October 14: Shemini Atzeret (Celebration of Renewal and Thanksgiving)
December 14-16: Chanukah (Feast of the Lights)
*dates change each year
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