Last June saw the Old City of Jerusalem brought to light in the first “Light of Jerusalem” festival. And this, June, the festival is back for a second offering between June 9-16.

Several episodes of the hit animated series The Simpsons have dealt with Jewish issues, and even the Middle East conflict over the years. However, it wasn’t until the series’ 21rst season that Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie will finally visit Israel and meet a bitter and angry Israeli tour guide, played by Sacha Baron Cohen (whose characters Bruno and Borat have made him a household name.)

FEW cities can be more confounding than Jerusalem — Israel’s ancient, conflict-ridden, ponderously pious capital. A cultural, political and spiritual crashing point since biblical times, this holiest of holy cities is the crossroads for the world’s three great monotheistic religions — each of them clamoring for scarce real estate and the theological upper hand.

The city of Jerusalem will feature a large scale two-week art initiative beginning September 5. The project will feature 20 galleries and over 200 artists. A total of 27 exhibits will open daily between 5 am to 10 pm, displaying works of art in various spaces and capturing the contemporary Israeli art scene.

Lady GaGa’s been in Israel this week and from her touring of Jerusalem to provocative concert in Tel Aviv, the singer has been causing quite a stir.

Beer from premium breweries, boutique breweries and home made beers will be featured in a variety of flavors, including herb beers. For one night Independence Park in Jerusalem will be converted into a giant bar with additional entertainment such as great music with live entertainment by various artists, street events and cultural activities.

The original Woodstock festival happened a long time ago, and whilst the festival no longer lives on, the music does. In Israel the mix of music from the summer of ‘69 remains ever-popular, combined with modern-day hits. And its for that reason that tomorrow, on Wednesday 5 August, Jerusalem will play host to a 5-hour music marathon on Tu B’Av, the traditional Jewish day of love. The event also commemorates 40 years since the historic 3-day Woodstock Festival in New York, in the summer of ‘69.

The Jerusalem Arts & Crafts festival is one of the city’s most popular tradition. Opening this Monday evening, the event stretches to include not only crafts, but also music, food, and attracts over 150,000 visitors, and includes a number of artists from abroad.
One of city’s most popular and long-held traditions, Hutzot Hayotzer festival, opens Monday [...]

We havent been able to sleep in every hotel in the city, but this selection is based on traveller reviews, coolness, and our own experiences (where we have them).

Whilst it isn’t as diverse or liberal as the Tel Aviv nightlife scene, Jerusalem has a vibrant nightlife which shouldn’t be dismissed.