Culture Breathes: Festival of Arts and Nature Returns to National Parks

The "Breathe Culture" project, a collaboration between Mifal HaPayis and the Nature and Parks Authority, will return for its 13th iteration during the Sukkot holiday, from September 28-30, 2026. The initiative aims to connect culture, art, and nature, bringing a wide array of performances and family-friendly activities to national parks across Israel.

Visitors can expect to encounter street performers, musicians, dancers, theater actors, circus artists, and living statues along park trails. This year's festival will take place in six national parks, with five located in the northern region: Yechiam Fortress National Park, Kochav HaYarden National Park, Tzipori National Park, Megiddo National Park, Hazor National Park, and Mamshit National Park in the south.

Launched in 2020, the project was conceived to foster a connection between the public and Israeli culture and creativity, while also supporting artists and making cultural offerings accessible in open spaces. It has since become a tradition, allowing families to integrate art and culture into their nature outings.

The three-day event will run daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, providing employment for 54 artists and musicians. The initiative costs an estimated 500,000 shekels, funded jointly by Mifal HaPayis and the Nature and Parks Authority. Activity admission is included with the park entrance fee.

Drorit Melnik, Director of the Culture Department at Mifal HaPayis, stated that the project reflects the unique link between culture, art, and nature, offering families a chance to experience Israeli creativity during their holiday outings. She highlighted its role in making culture accessible to diverse audiences and providing a platform for Israeli artists.

Shlomit Shvitt, Head of Media, Public, and Community at the Nature and Parks Authority, added that the ongoing collaboration creates a unique experience by integrating art into natural, heritage, and archaeological sites, allowing visitors to experience these locations in a new way. She invited the public to visit the national parks during Sukkot to enjoy an experience that connects place, story, and culture.