Events

While we strive for accuracy, we strongly recommend verifying all event details, including specific times and locations, directly on the official municipal or organizer website before finalizing your plans. Please be aware that schedules and entry requirements are subject to change without prior notice by the event hosts. Israel Travel Advisor provides this information for convenience only and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of these listings or for the management and conduct of the events themselves.

Holidays Calendar

The Jewish calendar is central to life in Israel, guiding national holidays, religious observances, and weekly routines. Knowing the dates of Jewish holidays is essential for planning your visit — many services, including public transportation, shops, and government offices, may close or operate on limited hours. From Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur to Passover and Hanukkah, each holiday brings unique traditions and travel considerations. Use our up-to-date Jewish holiday calendar to stay informed and ensure a smooth and respectful travel experience in Israel.


April Events

Event Name Date Category Location Cost
Passover (Pesach) Holiday April 1–8 Cultural/Religious Nationwide Free
Western Easter Processions April 5 Religious Ceremony Nazareth Free
Northern Horizon Exhibition All April Art Exhibition Haifa Museum of Art ~35–50 NIS
Mimouna Traditional Celebrations April 9 Cultural Festival Ashdod & Beer Sheva Free
"06:29 – From Darkness to Light" All April Historical Exhibition Museum of Tolerance, JLM ~40–60 NIS
Orthodox Easter & Holy Fire April 11–12 Religious Ceremony Old City, Jerusalem Free
Holocaust Remembrance Day April 13–14 State Ceremony Yad Vashem, Jerusalem Free
Akko International Fringe Theater April 14–16 Cultural Festival Old City, Akko Free/Ticketed
"reFORM" – Hanoch Piven All April Art Exhibition Herzliya Museum of Art ~30–45 NIS
Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) April 20–21 State Ceremony Nationwide Free
78th Independence Day Celebrations April 21–22 State Celebration Nationwide Free
Peak Spring Bird Migration All April Nature/Interest Birding Center, Eilat Free/Tours
"The Day Is Gone" Exhibition All April Art Exhibition Tel Aviv Museum of Art ~50 NIS

May Events

Shabbat - The Jewish Day of Rest

Shabbat, also known as the Jewish Sabbath, is a significant weekly day of rest observed by Jewish people worldwide. It commences every week at sunset on Friday and continues until sunset on Saturday. The term "Shabbat" originates from the Hebrew word meaning "rest," highlighting its central theme.

During Shabbat, travelers may observe a widespread observance of this day of rest in Jewish communities. Typically, most businesses, public transportation services, and entertainment venues in these areas will close. This often creates a distinct and peaceful atmosphere, with many individuals and families gathering in parks, enjoying leisurely meals together, and attending synagogue services in their local communities.

Planning Your Trip: Understanding Shabbat Observance: If you are planning to travel to a location where Shabbat is observed, it's important to plan ahead. Arrange accommodations and transportation in advance, as options may be more limited from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It's also advisable to stock up on groceries and any necessary items before sundown on Friday to be mindful of the local customs. Understanding these customs will help you have a respectful and smooth travel experience.

Large crowd of people gathered in front of the Western Wall in Jerusalem at night, with the illuminated ancient stone wall and a Greek flag in the foreground.