Jerusalem may be fairly traditional, but cultural activities still abound in the city. Use the links below to navigate to all Jerusalem has to offer and check our regularly updated events page.
Classical Music
Classical music is popular in Jerusalem like in other parts of the country.
The Jerusalem Centre for the Performing Arts, in Jerusalem’s German Colony, is the city’s unofficial cultural centre and hosts over 150 events each year. The Henry Crown Symphony Hall within is the home of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra has almost 30,000 season ticket holders – the largest subscription per capita in the world.
Theater
Jerusalem’s trendiest theater is the Khan Theatre, staging five plays every season in innovative ways. Although the repertory is divided between plays from Israel and around the world, performances are mainly in Hebrew.
For experimental theater, the Habima Theater in Jerusalem focuses on unique productions.
Cinema
The Jerusalem Film Center is the city’s trendy venue for arthouse films, hosting the Jerusalem cinematheque with two auditoriums screening classics, new releases and foreign arthouse films. Most foreign films are screened in their original language with Hebrew subtitles. Two of the most popular cinemas are Ray Chen in Talpiot and GG Gil at the Malha Mall.
Art
In recent years, Jerusalem’s street art has found new life and meaning thanks to a deliberate initiative by the Jerusalem Development Authority. Mahane Yehuda Market has become a veritable street art gallery since 2016, only visible on Saturdays when the market’s closed shutters reveal their vibrant murals. And do not forget Jerusalem’s array of art galleries.
Markets
Jerusalem’s many markets and souks are at the heart of this city’s culture and well worth a visit.
Nightlife
Do not let Jerusalem’s traditionalism fool you; there are plenty of great nightspots to enjoy, many even open on the sabbath. Check our list of Jerusalem’s best bars.
