Hanukkah in Jerusalem 2026
Dec 4 – Dec 12, 2026 · updated daily
Hanukkah in Jerusalem: grand candle lightings at the Western Wall and the city squares, light festivals, kids' shows throughout the Hanukkah school break, and sufganiyot (doughnuts) on every corner of Machane Yehuda Market.
The Hanukkah school-break week is one of the busiest for kids' and family events — plays, shows, and craft activities all over the city. Check the calendar a few days ahead, as the big shows sell out fast.
Hanukkah events already on the calendar
1 eventsFAQ — Hanukkah in Jerusalem
Where can I see a public menorah lighting in Jerusalem?
The grandest and most impressive lighting is at the Western Wall, every evening of the holiday. More lightings take place at Safra Square, in the city center, and in the neighborhoods. Also look out for the menorahs in the windows of the Jewish Quarter — a beautiful Jerusalem tradition.
What can kids do in Jerusalem during the Hanukkah break?
Hanukkah shows at the theaters and at Zappa, activities at the Science Museum and the Israel Museum, the Biblical Zoo, and — weather permitting — ice skating. The full school-break calendar is updated on this page.
More holidays & seasons
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