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Christmas in Jerusalem is a truly unique time of year. Thousands of pilgrims come to the city to celebrate Christmas in the place where it all began (nearby Bethlehem). The city, in particular, the Old City’s Christian and Armenian quarters, become adorned with decorations, while other Jerusalem landmarks such as the YMCA, along with the city’s churches, celebrate by holding services and carol concerts. Below are some of the best things to do in Jerusalem during Christmas.
Christmas Day in and around Jerusalem
Celebrate Christmas Day in Jerusalem in style with our once-a-year Christmas Day Tour - In and Around Jerusalem. Visit Christian spots you won’t find in a guidebook, such as the birthplace of John the Baptist in what’s now one of Jerusalem’s most idyllic neighborhoods, Ein Karem; then visit Qasr el Yahud, deep in the Judean Desert, where Jesus was baptized. You’ll truly delve into the spirit of Christmas as you finish your tour, relaxing at the Dead Sea for a spectacular winter sunset.
Check back to this page later to see 2026’s special Christmas events.
Past Jerusalem Christmas Events
- Christmas Market in Jerusalem- A lively market held annually in Jerusalem offers hundreds of Christmas products, handmade crafts, pastries, sweets, and hot drinks, all centered around the Christmas tree.
- Christmas Concert at the YMCA - This concert featured performances by over 80 singers and musicians, including the Jerusalem Street Orchestra, Oratorio Jerusalem Choir, the Jerusalem Youth Choir, and the YMCA Academy Orchestra.
Christmas Services
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem (Franciscan Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament)
- The Pontifical Institute, Notre Dame Center (holds multi-lingual masses)
Christmas in Jerusalem’s Old City
In the Old City, head to the Via Dolorosa and watch pilgrims from around the world walk this famous route with the cross of Christ over their shoulders. While the visit can be made at any time of year, it’s definitely more special at Christmas!
In the days leading up to Christmas and directly after Christmas, explore the rest of the city on a day tour that takes you around the Old City as well as the modern areas.
Across the Christian centers in Israel, Christmas in Israel is a truly magical experience, especially throughout Christmas in Nazareth and Christmas in Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Other prominent cities include Jerusalem, Bethlehem, which you can experience firsthand on our Christmas in Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem 2 Day Tour or Highlights of Christmas in Israel 3-Day Tour.
Midnight Mass in Bethlehem
Midnight mass in Bethlehem is a unique experience. Our organized Christmas in Bethlehem tour is available every year from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Herzliya, and includes all guiding, transport, and a special festive dinner. Entry to the church is difficult and usually pre-arranged by ballot. Spaces on the tour are limited so we recommend booking early. Additionally, check out our curated list of 5 more reasons to celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem for more inspiration.
