Israel's "Breathing Culture" Project Returns for Sukkot Holiday
The "Breathing Culture" initiative, a joint project by the Pais (Lottery) Foundation and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, is returning for its 13th year during the upcoming Sukkot holiday. The program will offer special activities for three days, from September 28-30, between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, at six national parks across Israel. This year, a particular focus is placed on the northern region, with five of the participating sites located there: Yehiam Fortress, Kochav HaYarden, Tzipori, Tel Megiddo, and Tel Hazor. The southern site for the event is the Mamshit National Park.
Throughout the event hours, visitors will encounter street performers, musicians, actors, circus artists, and various installations at different points along the routes. Some sites will also feature guided tours and activities related to their historical significance. A total of 54 artists and musicians are participating this year. At Yehiam Fortress, activities will be integrated within the ancient walls, offering tours and views of the Galilee. Kochav HaYarden will host tours of Belvoir Fortress, a family navigation game, and a new film shown in an ancient cistern. Tzipori will feature performances among its ancient streets and mosaics, with guided tours of the mosaic city and an optional "Mysteries in Time" activity. Tel Hazor will incorporate activities among the ruins of the biblical city, with tours focusing on its history and ancient Canaanite script, alongside ancient games. Tel Megiddo will also have performances and activities among its archaeological remains, with guided tours.
In the south, "Breathing Culture" will be part of the Mamshit festival, running from Sunday to Thursday throughout Chol HaMoed (the intermediate days of Sukkot). The festival includes art stalls, workshops, food vendors, and a coffee cart. The "Breathing Culture" activities at Mamshit will take place from Monday to Wednesday. The "Breathing Culture" project, which began in 2020, aims to enrich visits to nature, heritage, and archaeological sites. This year's program has an estimated budget of half a million shekels, jointly funded by the Pais Foundation and the Nature and Parks Authority.
Dolly Melnik, Director of the Culture Department at the Pais Foundation, stated that the initiative allows families to experience art and culture as part of their holiday trips, making culture accessible to diverse audiences and providing a platform for artists. Shlomit Shavit, Head of Communication, Audience, and Community at the Nature and Parks Authority, added that the collaboration creates a unique experience combining art with nature, heritage, and archaeology, allowing visitors to rediscover the places and their stories. The activities are included with the regular entrance fee to the sites, and are free for Matmon subscribers. Visitors are advised to check activity details and register if necessary.
