Spend a Holy Christmas in Jerusalem

Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel. Although Israel is known for its Jewish population, the city has a healthy mix of three major Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is also said the be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

The city is scenically lovely. It sits on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and Dead Sea. It has a rich sense of culture with many well-known landmarks including the Haram A-Shariff (Temple Mount) and the Western Wall.

Jerusalem is wonderful to visit any time of year, but it really lights up during the holiday season. Here are some things you can do when you’re n town.

The YMCA Christmas Market

This market takes place over the course of a weekend in early December. You can attend to shop for handmade crafts, products, food, and drinks.

Christmas Concert at the YMCA

Return to the YMCA on Christmas Eve for a Christmas concert that beats them all. It features performances by over 80 singers and musicians with representatives from the Jerusalem Street Orchestra, the Oratorio Jerusalem Choir, the Jerusalem Youth Choir, and the YMCA Academy Orchestra. Join in for the sing along.

The March at Via Dolorosa

Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem is believed to be the path Jesus walked to his crucifixion. It is flanked by fourteen stations that signify events mentioned in the New Testament such as Jesus’ condemnation by Pontius Pilate and the location where Jesus was handed the cross and condemned to death.

During the holiday season, you can watch pilgrims walk this famous route with the cross over their shoulders. You can also explore the path yourself.

Christmas in Bethlehem Tour

This Tour will take you through the city and includes a festive dinner followed by free time in Manger square. It also includes a Midnight Mass. After it’s completed, guest will be transported back to their destinations.

Christmas Tour at Tower of David

This tour celebrates the flavors and customs of the Old City. Guests will visit the Christian Quarter alleys at different churches and listen to the stories of their origins. Guides will take you to view shops and stalls selling holiday decor. You will also learn about the foods of the city, and you can sample delicious seasonal candies.

Christmas Tour of the Christian Quarter

Guides will lead guests through the Christian Quarter which serves as a center for the Christians living in the community. You will learn about the different types of Catholic religions in the area. You will also visit the Church of Holy Sepulcher, one of the most religious Christian destinations in the world. You will also get to see the area decked out with decorations and visit Santa Claus.

Santa’s House

Santa’s House is located in the Old City. It belongs to a family that has been living in Jerusalem for over 700 years. It is a donation-based attraction children can visit to enjoy an unforgettable experience.

La Patisserie Abu

This boutique bakery is operated by pastry chef Abu Seir. The family business serves up sweets and quiches providing a warm and intimate experience.

The Church of the Messiah

The Church of the Messiah will be hosting celebrations on Dec. 23rd and 24th. The Dec. 23 event will include warm wine, cookies, and performances by the Carmina Ensemble with stringed accompaniment. On Christmas Eve, guests can stop by to sing Christmas carols, eat gingerbread cookies, and enjoy warm wines and ciders.

Church of the Holy Sepulcher

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is located in the Christian Quarter, and it is considered to be one of the holiest sites in the city. It is said that this is where Jesus was crucified and ascended to heaven. It has been an important pilgrimage site since the 4th century.

A Tour in Jerusalem in the Christian Atmosphere

This tour takes you back to the early days of Christianity. It includes tours of the streets and alleys of the old city and a visit to the Church of the Messiah. It lasts about three hours. Registration is required.

Christmas Tours with Ibis Hotels

Ibis Hotels sponsor a tour of Jerusalem which takes you to major sites like the Christian Quarter, the Church of the Messiah, Muristan Square, the Saint Savior Church, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The guides will provide fascinating stories that will pique your interest

Jerusalem Christmas Market

The Jerusalem Christmas Market takes place over the course of a weekend in mid to late December in the yard of College des Freres near New Gate. Activities include parades, clowns, live shows, and appearances by Santa Claus. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase a variety of goods including sweets, decorations, gifts, clothing, toys and more.

You may not think of Jerusalem as the ultimate Christmas destination, but it provides more holiday activities than you can imagine. It offers a culture that makes for countless sites to see and things to do. Which of these events will you be enjoying when you’re in town?

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