Hanukkah in Tel Aviv: December 4th-12th, 2026

Tel Aviv is always a great place to be, but Hanukkah in Tel Aviv is even better. Where else in the world can you find an array of sufganiyot being freshly baked in practically every bakeshop, a multitude of menorah lightings to attend, and festive theatrical shows for the kids who are on break? The Festival of Lights is being celebrated this year in 2026 from December 4th to 12th. There are tons of events to be found all around the city. Below are some of the top events happening for Hanukkah in Tel Aviv, and most importantly, where to find the best sufganiyot!

Hanukkah Time Tours in Israel

Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are both hotspots for gourmet Sufganiyot. For a hands-on experience, join our Tel Aviv & Carmel Market Tasting Tour. As you stroll through Tel Aviv’s charming streets, soaking in the holiday atmosphere, you’ll also explore the bustling Carmel market, where you’ll discover local specialties that make the holiday season so memorable.

What To Do During Hanukkah in Tel Aviv

Attend a Menorah Lighting

Tel Aviv comes alive during Hanukkah with festive public menorah lightings and family-friendly celebrations. One popular way to commemorate the holiday is by attending a public menorah lighting, such as those held in past years through Light up Tel Aviv at Gan Ha’atzmaut (Independence Park) overlooking Hilton Beach. These events typically feature a menorah lighting, live music, donuts, activities for kids, and even a chance for a selfie with Judah Maccabi himself.

The Bavli Community Center typically hosts annual menorah lightings, often accompanied by a parade of lights, performances, and traditional treats like donuts.

Throughout the holiday, visitors can enjoy additional public menorah lightings in central locations such as HaBima Square, providing more opportunities to join the citywide celebrations and experience the festive atmosphere.

Note: Event details and schedules vary each year. Check local listings or official Tel Aviv municipality sources for up-to-date information before visiting.

Eat Your Weight in Sufganiyot

Eating sufganiyot on Hanukkah is a tradition, and we are all about tradition. These jelly-filled donuts can be found all around the city in flavors that will knock you off your feet. Not a donut person? Don’t knock it till you try it. These are donuts like you’ve never seen or tasted before. Roladin is most famous for serving up a huge variety of donuts, with innovative new flavors every year. Of course, since Tel Aviv is the vegan capital of the world, you can even find vegan donuts at Piece of Cake, a bakery with a few locations throughout the city. Also, be sure to check out our list of the best sufganiyot in Tel Aviv for inspiration.

Attend a Hanukkah Performance

Tel Aviv has a plethora of places to see live music. Catch special Hanukkah performances all around the city.

Go to a Museum

Visit a spectacular museum, especially the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, one of the best museums in Tel Aviv.

Shop for Presents

Tel Aviv has some great shopping opportunities. From the swanky boutiques of Neve Tzedek and Shenkin to the unique handicrafts fair on Nahalat Binyamin and the offbeat vendors in the Jaffa Flea Market, Hannukah is a great time to pick up presents in Tel Aviv for friends and loved ones - or yourself.

Traveling to Israel for the Holidays?

Hanukkah in Israel is such a magical time to visit, whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah in Jerusalem, Hanukkah in northern Israel, or in Tel Aviv! Ultimately, the best way to explore Israel’s stunning regions, like the old city of Jerusalem, or the breathtaking Negev Desert, is on our Israel Package Tours. You’ll focus on enjoying your vacation, while we take care of all the logistics-inclusive transfers, expert tour guides, exciting activities, and spectacular hotels.

See all Israel Package Tours