Priestly Blessing Ceremonies Set for Western Wall During Sukkot Holiday

The Western Wall Heritage Foundation has announced that the Priestly Blessing ceremonies during the intermediate days of Sukkot (Chol HaMoed) will take place at the Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem on two dates: Monday, October 17, and Thursday, October 20. The schedule for both days will be identical, with morning prayers beginning at 8:45 AM, followed by the Priestly Blessing at 9:30 AM. Afternoon prayers (Musaf) will commence at 10:15 AM, with the Priestly Blessing for Musaf at 10:30 AM.

Additionally, on the evening of Simchat Torah, October 22, Hakafot Shniyot (second circuits with Torah scrolls) will be held at the Western Wall Plaza starting at 10:00 PM, accompanied by music and approximately 100 Torah scrolls.

To accommodate the expected crowds of worshippers and visitors, public transportation to the Western Wall and within Jerusalem will be increased. Specific bus lines, including lines 1 and 3, will operate with enhanced frequency from various neighborhoods. Special lines like 111 and 333 will also run with extended hours. Intercity connections will be available at Ramot Junction. Line 38 will operate to the Mount Zion parking lot without entering the Old City, while line 2 will be canceled. Extra bus company lines 3 and 163 will use alternative routes through Damascus Gate and Bar Lev Street.

Israel Railways will increase service to Jerusalem, operating throughout the night. The Jerusalem Light Rail's L1 line will run until 2:00 AM each day of Chol HaMoed. Park-and-ride facilities will be available at Pisgat Ze'ev, Einot Tzufim, and Mount Herzl. Private vehicle access to the Old City area will be restricted on several main roads, and visitors are strongly advised to use public transportation.