Christmas Events 2024 in Jerusalem

With dozens of churches scattered throughout the Christian Quarter of the Old City, near the Old City, and in the neighborhood of Ein Karem, and being only six kilometers from Bethlehem, Jerusalem is an unforgettable place to celebrate the Christmas holiday. Enjoy the wonderful sight of decorated Christmas trees, the bright stars, and Santa Claus puppets all around, see the customs of different denominations in the churches and monasteries, and take part in the tours of the city alleys to the sounds of bells and carols.

In light of the security situation, most of the events will not take place this year, but you can still visit the churches and various tours during the holiday period.

Sergey's Court invites you to celebrate with a colorful fair that will present four Christmas trees. Each tree will be decorated in a different and unique style. So what awaits you this year?

Christmas Market with an artist fair and seasonal candy stands. You can also enjoy a variety of handicraft workshops suitable for children and adults, and live music throughout the complex

When? December 24-25, 12 AM - 8 PM
Where? Sergei Court, 13 Haleni Hamalka Street, Jerusalem

More details on Facebook >>

Entry is free!

The International Christmas Concert of the Jerusalem YMCA reveals the power of music and the universal message of peace and joy that Christmas brings with it. This year the Israeli Camerata will present visitors with an authentic Christmas experience with a selection of mesmerizing compositions.

In the musical program:

• Corelli: Concerto Grosso in G Minor, Op. 6 no. 8"
• Christmas Concerto" Cimarosa: Oboe Concerto 
• Bach: Brandenburg Concerto no. 3, BWV 1047 
• Leonard Cohen: Hallelujah

When? December 24, 8:00 p.m
Where? YMCA, King David 26, Jerusalem
Price: 95 NIS

Full details at the event page >>

In Jerusalem, you will find several churches that invite the public to attend Christmas Midnight Mass and other ceremonies. Regardless of religion or faith, these ceremonies are a powerful tourist experience. 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre 

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City and is considered one of the holiest sites for many followers of Christian traditions. Here, according to the Christian Orthodox denomination, Jesus was crucified, buried, and ascended to heaven. The church has been an important pilgrimage destination since the fourth century and is home to all the Orthodox denominations of Christianity. More about the Church of the Holy Sepulchre >> 

Church of Christ 

The Church of Christ is located inside the Jaffa Gate and hosts tourists and visitors on Christmas Eve and on the holiday itself. 

Other Churches 

Would you like to join the incredible holiday rituals, yet avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience? It is recommended to check out the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion and the Tomb of the Virgin Mary located in Gethsemane.

Join the Tower of David on a tour of the Christian Quarter, during which you will experience Christmas in Jerusalem at its brightest. You will visit the most decorated and festive alleys in the Christian Quarter, listen to stories about the holiday and its origins, and understand what the holiday of light has to do with other cultures. Trace the different customs of Christmas, from Santa Claus to the fir trees, and taste the high-calorie sweets that will give you energy in the cold of winter.

When? December 19-25 
More details >>

Mark the Christmas holiday with a tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem that culminates with a festive dinner and midnight mass outside the Church of Nativity. The top sites visited on this tour are: Mount of Olives, Church of the Nativity, a Festive Dinner in Manger Square, and Midnight Mass.

Get the full Christmas in Israel experience with a tour of Jerusalem and a festive Christmas Eve dinner, midnight mass, overnight stay and Christmas day-tour of Bethlehem.