Jerusalem's Hutzot HaYotzer Festival Celebrates 50 Years with Top Israeli Artists

The Hutzot HaYotzer Festival, one of Israel's longest-running cultural events, will mark its 50th anniversary this summer. Organized by the Jerusalem Municipality through the Ariel company, the festival will take place from July 30 to August 13 at the Sultan's Pool near the Old City of Jerusalem. As in previous years, the festival will feature an extensive outdoor musical lineup under the open sky at the Sultan's Pool.

The opening night will be led by singer Ishay Ribo, who will be joined by Amir Dadon, while the festival will conclude with a performance by Idan Amadi. Throughout the festival, a variety of prominent Israeli artists will perform on the main stage, including Shalom Hanoch, Yehuda Poliker, Rita, Shlomi Shabat, The Idan Raichel Project, members of Zehu Ze!, Hatikva 6, Eden Ben Zaken, Eden Hason, Nasrin, Agam Buhbut, Liran Danino, Lior Narkis, and The Revivo Project.

This year’s festival theme centers on metals, which will be integrated throughout the event’s spaces. Visitors can enjoy sculpture and art exhibitions in open areas, an artists’ market featuring dozens of creators with booths made from shipping containers, and a vintage pop-up zone. A key attraction will be the "Bridge of Hope," an interactive installation featuring a giant lock bridge where attendees can add personal locks to become part of the artwork.

The culinary scene will debut a new innovative area led by chef Rafi Cohen, divided into four sections inspired by different metals: aluminum (dairy menu), iron and steel (meat menu), copper (Asian cuisine), and silver (coffee and desserts). The festival promises a rich cultural and sensory experience celebrating its milestone anniversary.