Sukkot in Israel: October 6th-13th, 2025

Sukkot is a celebratory Jewish festival that occurs each fall and is part of the High Holiday season. Just like Passover, Sukkot is one of two week-long festivals celebrated in Israel. It’s a truly unique time to be visiting Israel.

The first and last days of Sukkot are national holidays when most businesses will be closed (similar to a regular Shabbat), whilst the intermediary days are semi-regular business days. Many Israelis work half days or take time off to celebrate with their families. The result is that there are loads of activities for Sukkot across Israel. This period is one of the most exciting times to visit the country. 

In 2025, the Sukkot festival falls between October 6th and October 13th, while holiday events take place slightly before and after these dates. 

How Do People Celebrate Sukkot in Israel?

After Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Israel moves into a time of high festivity with Sukkot. Traditionally, Jewish people will move out of their homes into a self-fashioned hut during the week of Sukkot where they will sleep and eat for the whole week. In Israel, Sukkot signals the end of the summer months. This tradition of sleeping outdoors is one of the last times that many Israelis will camp until the following spring.

Many restaurants, bars, and cafes join in on the tradition of serving food in a hut. You’ll most likely find yourself dining under a canopy of bamboo or palm leaves throughout the festival. As a designated time of joy and celebration in the Jewish calendar, Israel comes alive with parades, street parties, and music festivals throughout the week. 

What To Do in Israel During Sukkot as a Tourist

The Sukkot festival is the perfect time to experience Israel’s incredible nature. Because this special festival is so connected to the outdoors, the best way to join in on the fun of Sukkot as a tourist is to get out of the city. 

It’s important to note that there’s no public transport and limited restaurants/museums/stores open in Israel on Shabbat or over the first and last days of Sukkot. However, Tourist Israel tours operate on each of these days. Take advantage of the opportunity to get out of the city and visit incredible landmarks, like the picturesque Dead Sea, or admire beautiful nature at Ein Gedi.

In the intermediary days of Sukkot, join in on the Sukkot festivities with the locals. Become a part of the culture of Sukkot by visiting religious Jewish neighborhoods. Here, you’ll see whole streets of people move into huts outside their homes. On our Best of Jerusalem Day Tour, you’ll explore unique neighborhoods and a lively outdoor market, Machane Yehuda, which completely transforms during Sukkot.

How Should I Make the Most of the Sukkot Festival?

Be sure to check out more about our insights into Sukkot in Tel Aviv, Sukkot in Jerusalem, and Sukkot in Safed, as well as exciting upcoming things to do in Israel in October 2025. Ultimately, the easiest way to navigate this special holiday and make the most out of your vacation is through our Israel Package Tours. We cover all the details including charming hotels, epic activities, inclusive transfers, and expert tour guides, as you seamlessly journey through all of Israel’s stunning highlights.

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