Best Places to Visit in Israel During Christmas

It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that many people choose to visit Israel during the Christmas holiday. However, what might be unexpected is that the country doesn’t offer the same level of traditional holiday cheer that visitors may be accustomed to in the United States. While you won’t find an abundance of Christmas decorations or widespread festive events throughout the country, there are certainly a few places where the holiday spirit can be experienced in a unique way.

BETHLEHEM

Celebrating the birth of Jesus is a central event in Bethlehem, the city where he was born. Each year, thousands of people flock to this small town to commemorate the occasion. Bethlehem’s streets come alive with Christmas lights, and visitors can enjoy a Christmas market as well as plays, parades, and religious services led by various Christian denominations. A visit to the Church of the Nativity, built on the site believed to be Jesus’ birthplace, is a must. Take a stroll to Manger Square, where carolers can be heard singing traditional Christmas songs, creating a festive atmosphere.

NAZARETH

Nazareth, located in the heart of Galilee, is the place where Jesus spent his childhood. With a large Christian population, the city celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm. Although you won’t encounter snow or Santa Claus roaming the streets, you’ll find plenty of cultural and religious events, including street fairs, parades, and church services.

One of the highlights of the season is the Christmas Parade on December 24th, where youth and Christian leaders march through the streets to the Basilica of the Annunciation. In the evening, visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of fireworks. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot! On December 25th, Catholic churches throughout the city celebrate Mass, with the service at the Basilica of the Annunciation beginning at 7:00 am.

JERUSALEM

Jerusalem is a melting pot of cultures and religions, offering the best of both ancient and modern Israel. The city is one of the few places in the country where visitors can experience the more familiar Western-style Christmas celebrations, complete with Santa Claus, holiday-themed tours, and a grand, decorated Christmas tree. Seasonal treats, like the traditional Ghraybeh shortbread pastry made with semolina, pistachio nuts, butter, sugar, and orange blossom, can be found throughout the city, adding a sweet touch to the holiday festivities.

TEL AVIV-JAFFA

Tel Aviv’s historic port city of Jaffa (also known as Yafo) introduces a new Winter Festival this year, with the Christmas market being a central feature. Visitors can shop for Christmas gifts and decorations while enjoying local wines and traditional holiday foods. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the chance to experience a “white Christmas” as cannons shoot out faux snow for visitors to play in. Free Christmas tours are also available to explore the festivities.

While Israel’s Christmas celebrations may differ from the more familiar Western traditions, the country offers a spiritually enriching experience with memories that will last a lifetime.

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