Festive Delights: Uncovering Hanukkah 2024 Adventures in Jerusalem

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Let us welcome the brightness this Hanukkah as we commemorate this festival with extraordinary family activities! Hanukkah creates a wondrous atmosphere in Jerusalem: The city is illuminated, and there’s a sense of optimism, enthusiasm, and enjoyment in the ambiance. Prepare ahead and secure your reservations early.

Event specifics can be located at www.funinjerusalem.com/events

Events Sponsored by the City

Candle-lighting ceremony at the Western Wall

The lighting of the hanukkiah at the Kotel is an unforgettable occasion. This ceremony occurs each evening during Hanukkah, attended by prominent public figures.

When: December 25 – January 2, every day at 4:30 p.m. Friday at 3:30 p.m. Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Illumination in the Old City

Begin your journey at Jaffa Gate and stroll through the Jewish Quarter and ancient pathways. As you recognize the different hanukkiot on the sills of windows, you will discover the narrative of Jerusalem and the importance of the festival that unfolded right here. The tour concludes at the Western Wall Plaza. Duration: 2.5 hours.

When: December 25 – January 1
Cost: NIS 69

Winter Lights Celebration

The annual Winter Lights Celebration returns at the Botanical Gardens, in partnership with the Jerusalem & Heritage Ministry and the Jerusalem Development Authority. Wander along a 700-meter path and relish stunning light displays.

A sufganiya (jelly doughnut) exploration of Mahaneh Yehuda in Jerusalem for Hanukkah (Illustrative). (credit: Debra Tours)

When: Nightly until January 31. From 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Sunday-Thursday), 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. (Saturday). Not open on Friday.
Cost: Single ticket NIS 139; family ticket (up to 6 individuals) NIS 89 per person
Details: www.funinjerusalem.com/events/winter-lights-festival/

Hanukkah Performances & Festivals

Yonina musical tour

When: December 27 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. & December 29, from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Price: Adults: NIS 117. Children (2-10 years old) NIS 70
Details: [email protected]

‘Tragic Awakening’: Special Hanukkah film screening

An evening of cinema, contemplation, and motivation at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem. Attend a screening of Tragic Awakening, a post-Oct. 7 film reexamining the roots of antisemitism, transforming animosity into strength for Jewish identity and Western principles. Followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers and featured cast, which includes Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Rawan Osman, executive producer Shalom Schwartz, director Wayne Kopping, and producer Raphael Shore.

When: December 25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Screening starts at 7 p.m.
Cost: Standard ticket NIS 100. VIP NIS 500. Sponsor NIS 3,600 www.funinjerusalem.com/events/tragic-awakening-Hanukkah-screening/

Jewish Film Festival at the Cinematheque

The 26th annual Jewish Film Festival is happening over Hanukkah at the Jerusalem Cinematheque. This year’s festival emphasizes Jewish identity, cultural connection, and the influence of art during challenging and intricate times.

When: December 28 – January 2
Cost: NIS 41 per individual, per film
Details: [email protected]

Brilliant women’s pre-Hanukkah concert – Ramat Beit Shemesh

Prepare for an evening of harmony, emotion, vigor, and a spectacular performance! Rebbitzen Judith Gerzi and Abby Scheinfeld (Avigail) collaborate for a night of unity and inspiration in observance of Hanukkah. Anticipate popular hits, original tunes, and a celebration of light overcoming darkness. At Matnas Gvanim, Ramat Beit Shemesh.

When: December 23 at 8:30 p.m.
Cost: NIS 15 (Free for newcomers up to 10 years residing in Israel)
Tickets: (02) 633-1861

Hanukkah family amusement at First Station with Chabad of Baka

Chabad of Baka is organizing its annual Hanukkah public candle lighting with doughnuts at the First Station every evening during the holiday. It’s complimentary for the entire family! The highlight will be a live performance by the Solomon Brothers on Sunday, December 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., honoring the children and volunteers in the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem – and celebrating individuals of all capabilities.

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When: December 25 – January 1 at 6 p.m. each night (confirm times for lighting on Friday & Saturday evenings)
Cost: Free
Details: 054-830-5799

Holiday-Themed Tours & Activities

Hanukkiot & Sufganiot Tour with Debra Tours

Savor delightful doughnuts while touring Jerusalem’s treasured Mahaneh Yehuda market with Debra Nussbaum Stepen, a certified tour guide who immigrated from LA in 2007. Following the market excursion, Debra will lead you to the charming Nahlaot neighborhood to witness the lighting of the hanukkiot, along with touring the highlights and history of this quaint little jewel.

When: In the lead-up to and throughout Hanukkah, from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: NIS 1,500 ($400) for up to six individuals (including tastings). Inquire about special rates for smaller groups.
Details: [email protected]

Sufganiyot, sfeng, doughnuts, and more

A distinctive sufganiyot tour, tasting doughnuts from different parts of the world.Experience the delight of fried delicacies and the excitement of Hanukkah in Mahaneh Yehuda.

When: In the days leading up to and during Hanukkah.
Price: NIS 1,500 ($400)* for a group of up to 6 individuals

*Inquire about discounted rates for fewer participants.

Consult Debra regarding her Shuk Mahaneh Yehuda, Shtisel Tour & Thursday Night Cholent & Bakery Tour as well.

Hanukkah tours at the Bible Lands Museum with Nachliel

Affectionately referred to as The Museum Guy, Nachliel Selavan conducts a series of public and private tours, available in English and Hebrew, offering a fresh perspective on Hanukkah. “A Culture Clash” delves into the influences of Athens and Jerusalem on the globe (at the Bible Lands Museum). Suitable for ages 6 and up.

When: Contact Nachliel for information regarding the public tours. Private tours can be set up at your convenience.
Price: Private family tours range from NIS 580 to NIS 1,800 (based on group size). Public Tours cost between NIS 70 and NIS 95.
Details: [email protected]

Hanukkah tours for families at the National Library

Children can uncover the mysteries of the library through tailored guided tours that are suitable for young ones this Hanukkah. Explore the corridors, solve riddles, learn about concepts, admire the stunning architecture, appreciate artistic works, and unveil a marvelous world of literature and tales – and much more. These activities are conducted in Hebrew.

When: December 27, from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. December 29, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m., 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. December 30, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m., 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. December 31, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m., 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. January 1, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m., 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. January 2, 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Price: Adults NIS 50. Children (ages 6-18) NIS 25. Students NIS 35. Seniors NIS 30. Disabled individuals NIS 25

Glass-blown dreidels – Jerusalem House of Quality

Design your very own glass dreidel to commemorate the holidays at a glassblowing and flame-working workshop in Jerusalem. Gain insights into the techniques of glassblowing and flame-working from Yael, a Bezalel alum. It is recommended to reserve the workshop in advance due to high demand.

When: Private workshops available by appointment
Price: NIS 680 per couple. Each additional participant is NIS 220.
Details: [email protected]

Sculptural menorahs, clay menorahs, & dreidels – across from the Shuk

Kiyor Ceramics provides three festive workshops this Hanukkah. In the dreidel-making session, participants can craft dreidels using clay sourced from the Land of Israel, followed by personalization and glazing in their own unique style. Engage in sculptural menorah painting, selecting from a marvelous array of bisque-fired menorahs of various styles, shapes, and sizes, choosing colors to apply! Alternatively, sculpt a stunning menorah using clay from the Negev Desert, near the historical site of the Hanukkah miracle. Decorate and glaze using stamps, tools, letters, and an extensive selection of colored underglazes.

When: By reservation only
Price: Dreidel-making costs NIS 275 per person (for 4-18 participants). Menorah painting ranges from NIS 250 to NIS 950 (depending on selections). Menorah making costs NIS 375 per individual.
Details: [email protected]

Excavations from the era of the Maccabees – Beit Guvrin

This Hanukkah, join an actual excavation in the underground caves dating back to the time of the Maccabees and explore the ancient subterranean city of Maresha with Dig For A Day. It’s a fantastic family activity that revives history and is an excellent way to engage your children with the Land of Israel. Both public and private excavations are offered in English & Hebrew.

When: Available throughout Hanukkah
Price: Adult admission is NIS 95. Child (ages 5-18) NIS 72. Mixed group (minimum of 20) NIS 67. Entrance fee to the park: Adult NIS 28. Child NIS 14.
Details: [email protected]

Maccabean laser tag battle – Latrun

Recreate the historic Maccabean confrontation with the Greeks this Hanukkah through a contemporary laser tag battle for the entire family. Options include classic laser tag, GellyBall (a gentler variation suitable for families with young children), water tag, or an army day experience.

When: By appointment only
Price: Laser tag (1 hr.) NIS 100 per person; minimum NIS 1,800. GellyBall & water tag (1 hr.) NIS 60 pp, min. NIS 1,200. GellyBall (1 hr) & water tag (1 hr.) NIS 100 pp, min. NIS 2,000. Laser tag (1 hr) & water tag (1 hr.) NIS 145 pp, min. NIS 2,175. Army day (minimum 15 participants) NIS 250 per person
Details: [email protected]

Real wood candle holders & dreidels workshop – Gush Etzion

Workshop Gush Etzion proprietors Jeremy and Mandy Broder provide a unique family-friendly experience. They will guide you in transforming raw wood into a spectacular finished piece of Judaica, walking you through every step of the process. They have an excellent selection of holiday-themed items, including candle holders and dreidels, along with a vast assortment of classic Judaica.

When: December 25 – January 2, at 9:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
Price: NIS 300 per person
Details: [email protected]

Wax hand souvenirs & decorative candles – Gush Etzion

Creative Crafts Cafe in Gush Etzion offers delightful holiday-themed workshops for families or as a special date night. They are hosting unique wax workshops this Hanukkah, where participants will be guided in creating scented candles shaped like hot cocoa cups, cupcakes, or beer glasses. Dana and the team will also provide workshops on glass fusing and mosaics.

When: Wax candle workshops: December 27, January 2, & 3. Glass fusing: December 29 & 30. Glass mosaics: December 31. Resin crafting: January 1
Price: Specialty candles: NIS 120 – 150 per person. Wax hands: NIS 120 each. Glass mosaics: NIS 200+ per person. Glass fusing: NIS 220 per person. Epoxy resin: NIS 150 – 500
Details: [email protected]

Sunset at the Hasmonean hideout – Gush Etzion

When: December 30 at 2:30 p.m. Gather at the Asfar community. Return to Asfar at 4:30 p.m.
Price: Free
Details: [email protected]

Maccabean experience & Oz Ve’Gaon – Gush Etzion

When: December 29, 30, & 31 at 10 a.m.
Price: NIS 10
Details: [email protected]

Tour, concert, & candle lighting at the Herodium – Gush Etzion

When: December27, from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cost: Adult NIS 31. Child NIS 16. Student NIS 26. Seniors NIS 16. Reservists NIS 23
Contact Information: [email protected]

New Events This Hanukkah

National Library Kafka Exhibition: ‘Transformation of an Author’

A fresh exhibition unveiling the life, connections, and writings of writer Franz Kafka, along with his cultural impact. The exhibit narrates the journey of how Kafka’s original works were published. It provides an experience that pays tribute to Kafka’s legacy and encourages guests to navigate through a literary maze.

When: Daily
Cost: NIS 50 for guided visit

Beit Avi Chai – Beloved Journal: A writing & design workshop for parents and children

Utilizing words, inspiration, and an array of materials, enjoy quality time crafting your unique diary – a space to divulge your innermost thoughts. A place to reflect, reminisce, and express your feelings and reactions to events.

When: Tuesday, December 31 at 11 a.m.
Cost: NIS 30
Contact Information: [email protected]

Beit Avi Chai – Dance & Learning Workshop for parents and children

Dance bridges ideas and movement, linking the body and the mind as well as parents and kids. Guided by Ranana Raz, choreographer and creator, along with Haya Gilboa, educator on Talmud and gender. As the children explore the subject through movement and dance, the parents will study it through both ancient and modern texts.

When: Monday, December 30 at 4 p.m.
Cost: NIS 30
Contact Information: [email protected]

Pizza Production for Soldiers – Gush Etzion

“Simply One Kindness: Meals for Heroes” pizza-making opportunity. This interactive event is your chance to roll up those sleeves, create mouth-watering pizzas from scratch, and package them with care. The highlight? You’ll personally deliver these warm meals to our outstanding soldiers, who tirelessly protect us every day. Gush Etzion.

When: By reservation
Cost: Inquire with Just One Kindness for pricing.
Contact Information: [email protected]

Construct a Bed – Gush Etzion

The Construct a Bed Workshop by Just One Kindness merges enjoyment with purpose. It’s a wonderful hands-on experience, ideal for families, touring groups, or team-building days, where you collaborate to build durable bed frames that will bring comfort to families in need across Israel.

When: By reservation
Cost: $360
Contact Information: [email protected]

Neoja Basketball Entertainment Center – Beit Shemesh

Neoja, the planet’s premier basketball entertainment facility, has recently launched in Beit Shemesh. It’s the perfect spot for an enjoyable night out with family. Featuring futuristic basketball courts, dive into immersive reality – play authentic basketball in an enthralling virtual environment! They offer a unique DARTS system and a cutting-edge arcade gaming area, all located within a creatively designed venue. For groups of over 50 individuals, the venue can be reserved exclusively for your party.

When: Daily during Hanukkah, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. (closed on Shabbat & holidays)
Cost: NIS 90 – NIS 140 per person, per game
Contact Information: [email protected]

White Pool – Beit Shemesh

White Pool is an innovative indoor entertainment complex in Beit Shemesh at the Sha’ar Ha’ir Mall. A massive ball pit with over 220,000 immaculate white balls, thrilling slides, challenging rope courses, and a dance floor. Release your inner Tarzan, scale climbing walls, or enjoy bumper cars. Each day of Hanukkah, beginning at noon, Golden Balls will be hidden throughout the facility. Those who discover a Golden Ball will receive a Golden Ticket, granting access to the Grand Finale for a chance to find the Golden Ball and win NIS 10,000! The Grand Finale is exclusively for children aged 13 and under. (If you’re older, you may send a younger sibling or friend to represent you.)

When: Sunday – Thursday from 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Up to age 4 NIS 35/hour, Age 4-17 NIS 45/hour. Accompanying adult (age 18+): NIS 20 for the first hour; NIS 15 for each additional hour.
Contact Information: [email protected]; socks are mandatory.

Hanukkah Adventure Activities

Jerusalem Ropes Course – Ammunition Hill

Discover the courage of the soldiers who battled at Ammunition Hill as you conquer the zip-line, tackle the rope ladder and climbing wall, and swing high above.

When: Daily
Cost: Varies based on group size. Private groups can be organized.
Contact Information: [email protected]

The Bloc Climbing Gym – Jerusalem

A center for climbing enthusiasts in Jerusalem. Established by three friends passionate about climbing, it’s an excellent venue to learn climbing techniques and enhance your skills. With 300 sq.m of bouldering for all ages and skill levels.

Cost: Morning until 3 p.m. NIS 45; Evening, weekend, festival ticket NIS 65; Inquire about bulk entry tickets. Shoe rentals NIS 10 per session.
When: Sunday & Thursday: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Monday & Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Tuesday: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m., Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Cost: Morning ticket (until 3 p.m.) NIS 45; Evening, weekend, festival ticket NIS 65; Morning (10-entry card) NIS 400; Evening (10-entry card) NIS 599, (includes access to The Bloc, Tel Aviv). Seasonal membership, NIS 750; 6-month membership, NIS 1,380; Annual membership, NIS 2,520. Shoe rentals NIS 10 per session.
Contact Information: [email protected]

Smart Tour EZ Raider & Bicycle Tours

EZ Raider is an innovative off-road mobility experience provided by Smart Tour. Cruise through the streets of Jerusalem on a Classic Old City tour or embark on the Panoramic tour of the Armon Hanatziv Promenade in southern Jerusalem. They also offer various types of bike tours. EZ Raider Tours are based out of Smart Tours’ new HQ on Washington Street (right by the King David Hotel). Pedal bike rentals are also available at their new site in Gan Sacher (adjacent to the fitness park).

When: Daily
Cost: 1.5-hour EZ Raider tours NIS 299 (drivers aged 16+). Children NIS 150 (3-15); 2.5-hour bike tours NIS 299. A 5% discount is available on all online reservations for Fun In Jerusalem readers.
Contact Information: [email protected]

In Jerusalem

Robby Berman – Engaging Tour

Robby Berman, a tour guide, journalist, and comedian who enjoys educating and guiding,will be your captivating and amusing companion. Robby offers tours across the nation with proficiency in the Old City of Jerusalem (all the districts), the Mount of Olives, the Israel Museum, the Ancient City of Tel Aviv, the Historic City of Jaffa, and the American Colony in Jaffa. You may book him for half-day (4-hour expeditions) or full-day tours (8 hours).

When: By appointment
Price: Reach out to Robby for a quotation
Details: [email protected]

Time Elevator in the Mamilla Mall

Embark on an extraordinary adventure as you experience a multi-faceted film presentation. A voyage through the illustrious 3,000-year tale of Jerusalem. You will be entertained on screen by Chaim Topol, the lead actor of Fiddler on the Roof. Attendees will physically travel through time at this distinctive venue.

The film is available in Hebrew / English / Russian / Spanish / French / German / Italian and Chinese simultaneously.

When: Sun.-Thu. 10 a.m. – 5:20 p.m., Fridays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Price: NIS 54
Details: [email protected]

Red Bus City Tour – Hop On, Hop Off Tour (1.5-hour round trip)

A voyage through our breathtaking capital, from the Mahaneh Yehuda market to the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial on Mount Herzl. The City Tour (1.5 hour round trip) provides a striking overview of Jerusalem’s Old City and Mount Scopus. Tickets are offered for 24, 48, or 72 hours. It stops at all major hotels and points of interest.

When: Daily
Price: Hop On, Hop Off Tour: Adult NIS 107. Child NIS 90. Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) NIS 38 pp. Free for children under 6. City Tour: NIS 65. Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) NIS 19 pp.
Details: [email protected]

Rave Mosaic Workshops – Artists’ Colony

Glass mosaic artistry is created using the technique of taking shattered glass and fashioning it into stunning pieces of art. Roochie leads her participants in crafting their own unique works and provides tools, Italian glass, and a wooden base in her studio located in the Artists’ Colony. Each session lasts 2.5 hours.

When: By appointment
Price: NIS 200 per individual
Details: [email protected]

Laughter workshops

Laughter Games Workshops represent an excellent method of uniting a family or a special group. Energize your day by infusing more enjoyment into it through engaging and practical positivity activities. Any moment is the ideal opportunity to exercise both your mind and your humor as you cherish special quality moments with your family and friends. Debbie’s workshop can be conducted virtually or in-person.

When: By appointment
Details: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Jerusalem Hills

Jerusalem Mountains Hanukkah jeep tour

If you wish to avoid the throngs and enjoy the fresh clean air, take your family on a remarkable off-road jeep excursion through the Jerusalem Mountains this Hanukkah with Hidden Valley Jeeping. During this season, the blossoms are at their most beautiful as the mountain springs overflow, the winter flowers bloom, and you may even witness impressive bird migrations. If it rains, you’ll enjoy a flash-flood tour instead!

When: Reserve your private booking
Price: Two-hour tour NIS 1,100 per jeep. Half-day tour NIS 1,600 per jeep. Full-day tour NIS 2,000 per jeep. Nature Drawing Tour an additional NIS 900
Details: [email protected]

Horseback riding & pony trails

Step into the great outdoors this Hanukkah and ride a horse in the Jerusalem Hills.

King David Riding Stables offers a 45-minute magical guided trail through the breathtaking hills surrounding the capital (plus a 15-minute orientation before embarking). Horseback riding is available for ages 9 and above. Pony rides are available for younger children (ages 6+). New: Individual sessions or courses of therapeutic horseback riding classes for soldiers and civilians confronting PTSD, guided by specially trained professionals.

For reservations and pricing, call (Anthony or Arik): 053-739-8866 or 053-747-1681.

Details: [email protected]

Galita chocolate workshop – Kibbutz Tzova

Discover the art of making exquisite treats at the Galita chocolate workshops on Kibbutz Tzova. Kashrut Mehadrin. Reservations are mandatory.

Price: NIS 120
Details: [email protected]

Tzuba Winery tour & tasting

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Jerusalem Mountains is the Tzuba Winery and Visitors’ Center. Discover the intriguing history of the winery, learn about the various types of wine and grapes, and gain insight into the winemaking process itself. Your visit includes a tasting of four different wines (adults only). You can enhance the experience by ordering a luxurious cheese platter, which features a selection of local cheeses, stuffed vine leaves, and vegetables. Additionally, they’ve introduced a dairy menu that includes salads, pastries, pizzas, and focaccias. The tour is suitable for families, while tastings are reserved for adults only.

When: Reservations are necessary. Sunday – Wednesday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. – 11 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Price: Contact the winery for details.
Details: [email protected]

Kiftzuba Amusement Park

Kiftzuba is an amusement park catering to children of all ages. Located in Kibbutz Tzova just outside Jerusalem, the park is surrounded by the stunning vistas of the Jerusalem Hills, allowing kids to revel in Gymboree and climbing play areas, along with exhilarating rides, bumper cars, a roller coaster, an arcade, and much more. The park is an excellent destination for family enjoyment!

When: Friday, December 27, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, December 28, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Price: Ages 1-14 NIS 94. Ages 14+ NIS 56. Grandparents NIS 29. Family ticket NIS 378 (5 people)
Details: [email protected]

Yvel Factory Tour

Yvel invites you to partake in a distinguished tour of their globally renowned jewelry factory. Discover the Megemeria Craft Center featuring artistic demonstrations. Experience guided tours in English of the Megemeria School of Jewelry & Art and Yvel Design Center, and visit the factory store – a marvelous place to discover the ideal Hanukkah gift for someone special.

When: Daily, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prior booking is necessary.
Price: Free for tourists with passports. NIS 25 for residents.
Details: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Gush Etzion

Rappelling down Matzok Ha’avot

When: December 26 & 29, from
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: NIS 170 (1.5 hrs., ages 7+)
Contact: [email protected]

Caliber 3

Caliber 3 stands out as the premier counter-terrorism, defense, and security training institution in Israel and globally. They offer exceptional commando tourism options – providing an authentic “only-in-Israel” adventure. The offerings include the IDF Shooting Adventure, 360 Shoot House, Krav Maga, and a metropolitan combat simulator. Inquire about the exclusive VIP packages.

When: By appointment
Cost: Reach out to Caliber 3 for pricing.
Contact: [email protected]

Zomet Technology & Halacha Experience

Discover the principles of electricity use on Shabbat and the Zomet Institute’s innovations in security and medical applications. Interested in the latest advancements currently utilized by the IDF, enabling soldiers to adhere to Halacha around the clock while battling Hamas? Explore the interactive exhibit hall and view educational films (available in English or Hebrew). English-language tours must be booked in advance.

When: December 26 – January 2. English tours available daily at 1 p.m.
Cost: NIS 300 for an English guide plus NIS 20 per attendee (minimum 10 individuals per tour). NIS 35 per person for guided tours in Hebrew. NIS 140 for family tours (limited to immediate family).
Contact: [email protected] or call 052-312-1097

Chayot Shlomo exotic animal farm – Nokdim

Display over 100 species of exotic creatures from across the globe, featuring iguanas, large turtles, anaconda snakes, tarantulas, birds, parrots, peacocks, and chinchillas. A petting area for kids with goats and rabbits is also available, along with opportunities to ride camels and donkeys. Furthermore, a new creepy crawlies exhibit has been added. On Wednesday and Thursday during Hanukkah at noon, a show will take place as well.

When: Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Adult NIS 35. Child (ages 2-18) NIS 45
Contact: [email protected]

Hebron Fund Tours

The Hebron Tour offers a distinctive, enjoyable, and motivational experience for all ages, exploring Rachel’s Tomb and the Cave of the Patriarchs – two of Israel’s most frequented sites. Follow in the path of our matriarchs and patriarchs, see the location where Abraham acquired the Cave of the Patriarchs to lay his beloved wife Sarah to rest, pray at Rachel’s Tomb and at the cave, and engage with soldiers and Jewish residents of Hebron who protect our cherished city.

Cost: $50 per participant. Complimentary for children under age 5.
When: By appointment
Contact: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Beit Shemesh

Biblical Museum of Natural History

Gain insights into the animals referenced in the Tanach and those recognized in the Land of Israel. Embark on an interactive museum tour, where you can see and touch live animals, animal skulls, eggs, and specimens. Perfect for all ages.

When: By reservation
Cost: Adult NIS 50. Child NIS 40 (ages 4-17)
Contact: [email protected]

Resin workshop

Unleash your creativity at a stunning resin workshop hosted at the Nicole Friedman Studio in Beit Shemesh. Craft vibrant, functional art, and truly understand the excitement surrounding resin art.

When: Reservations necessary.
Cost: Begins at NIS 125 per participant (project-dependent)
Contact: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Mevo Heron

Artesana glass workshops

At Artesana, breaking glass is not just permitted – it’s promoted! Step into the enchanting realm of glass, and fabricate a variety of holiday-themed creations alongside beautiful art pieces including Seder plates, bowls, trays, mezuzot, jewelry, and images. Reservations essential.

Cost: NIS 180 per person (minimum of 3 people). Couples workshop NIS 520
When: Private workshops available throughout Hanukkah at a time that suits you.
Contact: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Adumim Area & Dead Sea

Dead Sea Bikes

Explore the Dead Sea on a Rider Dead Sea Bike. Enjoy self-guided bike tours to the Salt Diamonds. Utilizing an application, you will find all the intriguing locations independently. Cycling trails lead to stunning viewpoints. Experience the tranquility among date groves, alongside the sea, and at hidden spots known only to the team. Suitable for ages 16+.

When: By reservation
Cost: Starting at NIS 100 per person for standard bikes
Contact: [email protected]

Genesis Land – Eretz Bereshit

Immerse yourself in an ancient experience at Eretz Bereshit, where you are welcomed by Eliezer and introduced to Abraham’s tent. Become part of the biblical narrative as you ride a camel to the tent and savor light refreshments from a couple renowned for their hospitality. They provide fantastic family packages including camel rides, hospitality, and workshops such as pita baking, desert navigation, pottery creation, and mosaic art.

Cost: Family package (ages 4+) NIS 105 per person. For camel rides solely, NIS 35-55 per person.
When: Daily, reservations required.
Contact: [email protected]

Hanukkah activities with Tour Adumim

Shelley will orchestrate an exhilarating day for families in the Ma’aleh Adumim area. Ascend to the Mitzpe Yeriho Lookout and the Coffee on the Edge café. Engage in survival skills for the desert, sketching the desert landscape, soap crafting, and basics of shepherding. Connect with a local Bedouin, explore Ptil Tekhelet’s new educational facility, take a tour of the Good Samaritan Mosaics Museum, partake in mosaic creation for kids, or enjoy ATV and jeep adventures. “Discover an Israeli Artist” at the Moshe Castel Museum of Art, with a scavenger hunt and writing in ancient Hebrew, alongside camel riding in the Judean Desert.

When: Reservations necessary
Contact: [email protected]

Uri Kalfa mezuzah workshop

Visit Uri Kalfa’s workshop to delve into the history and significance of the mezuzah, followed by the opportunity to hand carve and adorn your own mezuzah case crafted from olive wood.

When: By appointment
Cost: NIS 120 per participant.
Contact: [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem – Ra’anana

TOMO Candy: Create your own rock candy – Ra’anana

Join a unique educational and interactive (not to mention delectable) master class in crafting scrumptious hard candies. Ages 6+

Attendees will learn and engage in the captivating process of rock candy production and observe the stunning colors, aromas, and textures, which are essential elements of the end result – delightful sweets!

When: By reservation
Cost: NIS 160 per individual (minimum of 5 participants per workshop)
Contact: [email protected]

NOW IT’S your turn to decide which activities your family will relish.

No matter your choice, you’re guaranteed fun in Jerusalem this Hanukkah!

For a comprehensive list of events in Jerusalem, check out the Fun In Jerusalem Calendar: www.funinjerusalem.com/events/ev/Hanukkah/

Ronit Ansbacher is the content-sales manager at Fun In Jerusalem. She resides in Efrat with her husband and two children and is passionate about promoting all the enjoyable activities occurring in and around Jerusalem. [email protected]

Joanna Shebson is the founder of Fun In Jerusalem (www.funinjerusalem.com). Residing in Jerusalem with her husband and three kids, she enjoys inspiring family fun. [email protected]

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