Jerusalem Unveils Packed Sukkot Celebration Schedule

Jerusalem is preparing to host a wide array of events and festivals across the city for the upcoming Sukkot holiday, following the High Holy Days. The celebrations will include the traditional Four Species market, the Mayor's Sukkah in Safra Square, the Jerusalem March, the Saharana festival, and various music, art, and nature-focused activities for families.

The Four Species market will open in Mahane Yehuda's Valero Square after Yom Kippur and run until the eve of Sukkot, offering etrogs, lulavs, sukkah decorations, and other holiday items. It will operate daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with adjusted hours on Friday.

The Mayor's Sukkah will be erected in Safra Square throughout the intermediate days of Sukkot (Chol HaMoed), featuring performances and activities for the public. The annual Jerusalem March is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 2026, with multiple hiking routes for different fitness levels, culminating in Sacher Park with family activities. Musical ensembles and activity stations will be present along the routes, with shuttle services available.

The Saharana festival, celebrating the heritage of Kurdistan Jews, will take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the Museum of Tolerance, offering free admission. The event will include music, cultural displays, traditional food stalls, and performances by community singers, running from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Additionally, the "Green Inside and Out" festival will run on September 28-29, 2026, focusing on urban nature and sustainability with tours and activities. The "Bethlehem Road" festival on September 27, 2026, will transform the street into an arts and culture hub with music, workshops, and a food and art fair. The Ein Kerem festival is set for October 1-2, 2026, featuring music, art, nature activities, open studios, and a procession in the Ein Kerem neighborhood.

To accommodate visitors, equipped sukkahs will be set up along the light rail construction routes in various neighborhoods. The Jerusalem Municipality is also increasing cleaning, security, and enforcement services, urging visitors to use public transportation and park-and-ride facilities. Mayor Moshe Lion emphasized Jerusalem's unique holiday atmosphere and the city's readiness to welcome residents and visitors.