North
1. 'Holiday of Holidays' at Haifa’s Museums
Celebrating its 31st year, 'Holiday of Holidays', organized by Beit HaGefen - an Arab-Jewish cultural center, together with the municipality of Haifa, offers a wide range of family events across the city. In keeping with the spirit of the festival, activities will be conducted in Hebrew, Arabic and Russian. Highlights include a detective tour in the dark, pottery workshops, creative art sessions, guided tours, performances and theater shows.
Where? Throughout the city of Haifa
When? Dec. 11–31
Cost? Varies by activity
2. WIPARK, Haifa
An approximate 1,000‑square‑meter space filled with challenging inflatable attractions for all ages, a large indoor playground, a LEGO and crafts room, and a food area.
Where? Romema complex, Haifa
When? Dec. 12–27
Cost? 89 shekels
3. Hanukkah at the Six-Day War heritage center - Givat HaTahmoshet Memorial Site, Jerusalem
The program includes a commemorative guided tour combined with outdoor theater, a meeting with veterans of Israel’s 1967 Six‑Day War and arts and makeup workshops for children.
Where? Givat HaTahmoshet Memorial Site
When? Dec. 16–18, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Cost? 20 shekels
4. 'Lighting Up the Golan' at the Tznobar compound
A festive family event in the Golan that features a circus workshop, a juggling workshop and two live shows.
Where? “Tznobar” compound
When? Dec. 17
Cost? 35 shekels
5. Lantern tour at Ma'ayanot Park
A special activity combining creativity, nature and light: a guided lantern walk followed by a workshop to make lanterns from recycled materials.
Where? Meet at the Ma'ayanot Park parking lot
When? Dec. 18, 3:30 p.m.
Cost? 60 shekels
6. Light festival 2025 at Ofer HaKrayon mall
A major light display featuring more than one million LED bulbs, illuminated decorations, glowing tunnels, twinkling trees and artistic installations.
Where? Ofer, HaKrayon shopping mall
When? Dec. 7–Jan. 10
Cost? 55 shekels
7. Light Land show at HayPark, Kiryat Motzkin
Including a forest of lights, a luminous tunnel, interactive displays, craft workshops, family activities, light and music performances and a communal Hanukkah candle lighting.
Where? HayPark promenade, Kiryat Motzkin
When? Dec. 14–Jan. 10, Sunday–Thursday and Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Cost? 60 shekels
Central Israel
8. City of Lights festival in Herzliya
Dozens of dazzling, illuminated art installations featuring cutting-edge technology will transform downtown Herzliya into a glowing Hanukkah celebration. Each piece blends elements of fantasy, nature, imagination and light. The city will also host a wide range of events and activities throughout the holiday.
Where? Herzliya city center: Hen Boulevard, Sokolov–Ben-Gurion streets, and City Hall plaza
When? Dec. 14–22, 4:30–11:00 p.m.
Cost? Free
9. The 'Hanukactus' at the Hiriya Recycling Park
For the first time, Hiriya recycling park is hosting “Hanukactus” at its Environmental Education Center. Designed for groups, the event includes a series of hands-on activities exploring waste management through games and interactive learning.
Activities include “Gamekaktus,” which uses repurposed objects to teach about the cactus's resilience, “KaktusTour,” a guided visit to the RDF waste-sorting facility, where participants will discover the story behind household waste, such as what happens to a trash bag after it's loaded onto the truck near their home, and how garbage can be transformed into useful products like fuel. And “KaktusWorkshop,” where participants learn how to turn trash into useful products. Suitable for ages 5 and up.
Where? Hiriya Recycling Park
When? Dec. 16–18, at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Cost? 45 shekels
10. Hanukkah at the World Jewish Sports Museum, Ramat Gan
The museum will offer special Hanukkah-themed activities, including a guided tour tracing the history of Jewish sports from the 19th century to today, and “The Lost Torch,” an adventure game modeled after “The Amazing Race.” Winners will receive prizes. The interactive experience room will be open, featuring sports challenges such as ball games, target practice and speed tests. Activities are suitable for ages 8 and up.
Where? Jewish Sports Museum, Kfar Maccabiah, Ramat Gan
When? Dec. 16–22
Cost? 60 shekels
39 View gallery
Hanukkah at the World Jewish Sports Museum, Kfar Maccabiah, Ramat Gan
(Photo:Rafi Daloya )
11. 'Alice in Wonderland' Youth Musical in Rehovot
The city of Rehovot presents one of Israel’s largest youth productions this Hanukkah 'Alice in Wonderland'. Featuring 250 children and teens from the Rehovot Youth Theater, the performance includes acting, singing, makeup, stage management and production, all done by young participants.
Where? Beit HaAm – Rehovot Municipal Cultural Center
When? Dec. 15–22, with four daily shows (11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m.)
Cost? 55 shekels
12. Israel’s first Roblox championship in Holon
A massive gaming event merging the virtual and real worlds. Highlights include live-streamed matches, surprise box openings, prize giveaways totaling tens of thousands of Robux, international guests and mystery surprises revealed during the event. Hosted by popular gaming YouTuber De Cohen.
Where? Toto Hall, Holon
When? Dec. 17, 18 and 21
Cost? 159–249 shekels
13. Children’s theater festival in Givatayim
The Israeli Hasha'a Theater will bring beloved stories to life at the Givatayim Theater during Hanukkah break. Performances include stage adaptations of “Peter Pan,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Pinocchio,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes” and more. Alongside the shows, families can enjoy a Hanukkah-themed fair with live characters, arts and crafts, interactive games and art stations.
Where? Givatayim Theater
When? Dec. 17–19
Cost? 39–75 shekels per ticket
Tel Aviv
14. Hanukkah at Eretz Israel Museum (MUZA), Tel Aviv
The holiday program centers on a hands-on family workshop in collaboration with Studio Alata. Visitors will explore the early days of photography and the captivating relationship between light and darkness. Participants will create photograms, print in a real darkroom, and discover the slow, analog magic of photography, so different from today’s digital world.
The session ends with a guided tour of the museum’s family-friendly exhibit, 'Worth the Wait', which explores the concept of waiting in modern life. Recommended for ages 6 and up.
Where? Eretz Israel Museum, Tel Aviv
When? Dec. 17–20
Cost? 50 shekels
15. Hanukkah children's theater festival by Orna Porat Theater
A series of stage performances, including "Kramel 3 – Adventure at de Ville Castle," the final installment of the hit musical series based on Meira Barnea Goldberg’s books. Other shows include Roni and Tom, Parpar Nechmad, The Rhyme Warehouse, and additional beloved classics from the Orna Porat repertoire.
Where? Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Eretz Israel Museum, Beit Zionei America
When? Dec. 17–22
Cost? 40–90 shekels per ticket
16. 'HanuCramel' festival at Dizengoff Center, Tel Aviv
This themed festival features appearances by author Meira Barnea Goldberg, workshops with illustrator Rami Tal, original shows, a limited-edition Cramel doll launch, a pet adoption day, a treasure hunt with prizes, official merchandise booths, candle-lightings and sufganiyot giveaways.
A special sensory-friendly morning for children on the autism spectrum and their families will be held on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where? Dizengoff Center, Level -1, Building B
When? Dec. 16–22
Cost? Free
17. The 10th Elmina Theater festival in Jaffa
The multicultural Elmina children's theater festival returns with free outdoor shows, creative workshops, costumed characters, live music and three new premieres in Hebrew and Arabic: "Hummus Turmus", "The Fisherman and the Golden Wishes", and "Malala" — a heartfelt monodrama for teens inspired by Nobel peace laureate Malala Yousafzai.
Where? Elmina theater complex and halls at Jaffa Port
When? Dec. 18–20
Cost? Varies by activity
18. LUMAGICA international light festival at Yarkon Park
This immersive experience features dozens of massive light sculptures — some up to 16 feet tall — handcrafted in Europe using advanced 3D technology. Spread across a 20-dunam (5-acre) walking path, visitors will encounter interactive light installations, sound-and-light shows and photo-friendly displays. Highlights include a giant hot-air balloon, glowing panda, unicorn, rainbow, gift tree, water installation and a 16-foot Hanukkah menorah.
Where? Yarkon Park, Tel Aviv
When? From Nov. 13 onward
Cost? 99 shekels
19. Hanukkah at ANU – Museum of the Jewish People
The museum offers a holiday-themed program including a theatrical performance of "The Legends of King Solomon" by the Shomron Theater, and a guided tour led by actors portraying historical Jewish figures associated with Hanukkah. The 40-minute tour is complemented by a visit to the “Heroes” gallery, highlighting groundbreaking individuals in Jewish history.
Where? ANU – Museum of the Jewish People, Tel Aviv University campus
When? Dec. 17–22
Cost? 70 shekels (includes museum entry, tour and performance)
20. 'Beauty and the Beast' Musical at the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center
Inspired by the iconic Broadway production, this large-scale musical features colorful costumes, elaborate sets, a full cast of performers and classic songs. Starring Lihi Toledano and Yehezkel Lazarov.
Where? The Israeli Opera, Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center
When? Dec. 15–22
Cost? 159–319 shekels
21. 'The Snow Queen' musical at Beit Zvi
Beit Zvi School of Performing Arts presents its annual Hanukkah children’s musical. This year’s production is "The Snow Queen," based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, performed by third-year acting students. Suitable for ages 4–11.
Where? Gary Bilu Hall, Beit Zvi
When? Dec. 7–22
Cost? 85–100 shekels
22. 'Tel Aviv–Jaffa in Lights' – Citywide Hanukkah celebrations
The Tel Aviv–Jaffa Municipality will host various events in public spaces and community center: candle-lighting ceremonies, giant menorahs in Jaffa Port, Rabin Square and the Culture Plaza, theater performances, storytelling hours, musical acts, sing-alongs, arts-and-crafts workshops, tours and more.
A standout attraction is “Wish Candle” at Tel Aviv Port — a family activity inspired by lantern festivals in Thailand, Hawaii and Japan. Participants of all ages can create and decorate their own floating candle, write a wish, and release it into the water. As darkness falls, the port basin will glow with hundreds of tiny lights forming a dazzling spectacle.
Where? Across Tel Aviv–Jaffa
When? Dec. 1–31
Cost? Varies by activity
Jerusalem and the surrounding area
23. Hanukkah theater festival in Jerusalem
This children’s theater series presents engaging, artistically rich shows that are fun and accessible. Performances include "The Best Show in the World", "Farm Star", "My Poisonous Frog", "Wild Yehoshua", "Two Sisters", and "The Biggest Liar in the World". Recommended for ages 3–9.
Where? Cultural venues in Jerusalem: Studio Mashu Mashu, Beit Reshut Harabim, Hamifletzet park and Beit Taylor Hall
When? Dec. 17–21
Cost? 15–20 shekels
24. Hanukkiah tours at the Tower of David Museum, Jerusalem
Families can explore the Jewish Quarter by candlelight with guided tours featuring Hanukkiahs in the alleyways, riddles, a group candle-lighting and sufganiyot. For ages 6 and up. Note: the tour includes stairs and is not accessible. Duration: approximately 90 minutes.
Where? Tower of David Museum, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 14–21 at 4:30, 5:00 and 5:15 p.m.
Cost? 60 shekels (ages 5+)
25. Hanukkah at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Three festive evenings of activities for all ages, including circus characters from Circus Svago, candle-making workshops, pottery, Hanukkiahs and dreidels, family tours of the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit, storytelling and more. Each evening will hold a joint candle-lighting, and sufganiyot giveaways.
For the first time, the museum will offer a night tour: after closing, one group will remain for a guided flashlight journey through the darkened halls, including lantern-making.
Where? Israel Museum, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16–22
Cost? Free admission for children during Hanukkah; activity fees apply.
26. Mini Hanukkah festival at the Train Theater, Jerusalem
Original and guest performances, circus and clown acts, music, imagination and magic for the whole family. Shows include "Hook to My Book" (a musical, told in pictures), an acrobatics duo, "Private Collection" (puppet theater), and "Toto and Friends" (birthday-themed puppet show).
Where? Train Theater, 6 Bethlehem Road, Liberty Bell (near Skatepark), Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16–22
Cost? 35-45 shekels
27. Winter Dreams – Light Show at Jerusalem’s Botanical Gardens
A 1.5-kilometer illuminated night trail with over 2 million LED lights, 30+ light installations and 22 giant sculptures. The experience includes music-synchronized light shows, interactive tunnels, an illuminated animal forest, a “kilometer of light,” and a kosher culinary zone by Chef Moshik Roth featuring glow-in-the-dark dishes.
Where? Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
When? Nov. 29–Jan. 31, daily from 5:00 p.m.
Cost? 119 shekels
28. Hebrew Language Hanukkah Program for Children – Academy of the Hebrew Language
In partnership with the Biblical Zoo, the academy invites children to explore the connection between the Hebrew language and the animal kingdom. Activities include exploring Hebrew expressions, names and verbs through hands-on games, viewing items from Eliezer Ben-Yehuda’s estate, and discovering a 100-year-old book of Hebrew children’s poems.
For children ages 6–12, accompanied by an adult. Duration: about two hours.
Where? Academy of the Hebrew Language, Hebrew University Givat Ram Campus, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16 and 21 at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Cost? 40 shekels
29. Hanukkah events across Jerusalem
The city will host dozens of holiday events, including Sweet JLM — a family celebration at Armon HaNatziv Promenade featuring stunning light displays, sweet treats, a giant illuminated hanukkiah and festive atmosphere. Other events include Spectrum, an art showcase with installations, performances and workshops; a winter market; the Pyromania circus; the Outline illustration festival; live shows; and national tournaments in tennis and chess.
Where? Throughout Jerusalem
When? Dec. 14–21
Cost? Varies by event
30. Nature Hanukkah at Gazelle Valley, Jerusalem
A full week of free, family-friendly activities supported by the Jerusalem Foundation and Mandel Foundation. Includes guided tours, creative workshops, music, children’s plays and storytelling.
Where? Gazelle Valley Nature Park, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16–22, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Cost? Free
31. Hanukkah at the Bloomfield Science Museum, Jerusalem
Holiday activities include a spinner-building lab, live fire demonstrations and a “Vinegar and Baking Soda” chemistry show. A sensory-friendly time slot for children with special needs will be held on Monday, Dec. 15 from 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where? Bloomfield Science Museum, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16–21
Cost? 65 shekels (ages 5+)
32. Hanukkah at the Biblical Zoo and Israel Aquarium
Visitors can enjoy digital navigation games with riddles and challenges about different animals. Those who reach the final station earn chocolate Hanukkah gelt.
Where? Biblical Zoo and Israel Aquarium, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 16–22
Cost? 57 shekels (children), 71 shekels (adults)
33. Hanukatan Tournament in Jerusalem
A giant 'Settlers of Catan' tournament with around 300 players participating simultaneously. Each move will be projected on a big screen, uniting all players on an extended board. First prize: 2,000 shekels. Open to ages 10+ with game knowledge.
Where? Cinema City, Jerusalem
When? Dec. 18, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Cost? 50 shekels
34. 'Hot in Hanukkah' festival in Modi'in Region
Set in the historic homeland of the Maccabees, this family festival includes lantern-lit hikes, map-and-clue forest navigation, hands-on archaeology, drumming circles, actors dressed as Maccabees, live music, treasure-themed plays, candle-making, bike rides with puzzles and outdoor escape rooms.
Where? Throughout the Modi'in Region
When? Dec. 13–22
Cost? Varies by activity
South
35. International doll exhibition in Arad
Held in memory of Capt. Binyamin Rosenblum, a resident of Arad, who was killed in southern Israel in 2017. His parents turned their son’s love for art into a lasting memorial project. The exhibition features over 50 dolls from local and international artists, alongside art workshops and a colorful crafts market.
Where? Contemporary Art Center, Arad
When? Dec. 17–20
Cost? Free
36. Winter festival at Kfar Hanokdim
A desert weekend retreat blending nature, music and culture. The program includes workshops, guided hikes, creative sessions, evening bonfires, live performances and scenic relaxation areas.
Where? Kfar Hanokdim
When? Dec. 18–20
Cost? 390–475 shekels
37. Lantern Tours at 'Midbarium,' Be'er Sheva
A nighttime lantern journey through the animal park, exploring the desert’s nocturnal creatures and mysteries under the stars.
Where? Midbarium Animal Park, Be'er Sheva
When? Dec. 15–22
Cost? 79 shekels
38. Northern Negev Hanukkah Events
Activities include flashlight-lit evening tours in a spice maze, a hanukkiah exhibit made from qasem rocket fragments, pottery workshops, strawberry picking, and a time-travel experience into the early days of Zionist settlement in the Negev.
Where? Northern Negev communities
When? Dec. 15–22
Cost? Varies by activity
39. 'Lighting hope in the desert' at Ben-Gurion’s desert home
Activities include candle-lit tours, a display of David Ben-Gurion’s personal hanukkiahs, a shadow theater based on the book "A Tree in the Desert," by Avirama Golan, and interactive exhibits on Zionism, the Negev and Israeli society.
Where? Ben-Gurion's Desert Home, Kibbutz Sde Boker
When? Dec. 15–22
Cost? 25 shekels (adults), 15 shekels (children)
40. Underwater light wonders in Eilat
At the Underwater Observatory Marine Park, a diver will light an underwater hanukkiah daily in the shark tank. Activities include sea creature workshops, a Hanukkah-themed rock painting project, guided feeding sessions, 3D movie, toddler gym, face painting and more.
Where? Underwater Observatory Marine Park, Eilat
When? Daily throughout Hanukkah
Cost? 129 shekels (adults), 109 shekels (children) — includes three-day access
Activities across Israel
41. Hanukkah with KKL – Light and unity across Israel
KKL will host community Hanukkah events promoting unity and hope, including performances, plays, exhibits and workshops across the country.
Where? Nationwide
When? Dec. 16–21
Cost? Varies by activity
42. 'Mysteries in time' – family game at heritage sites
An interactive family adventure available at 10 heritage and national park sites across Israel, including two sites that remained closed for an extended period during the Iron Swords War (Tel Dan Nature Reserve and Mitzpe Gvulot).
The game, guided by a podcast and clue booklet, explores the Zionist and Jewish stories behind each site. Game kit: 35 shekels per family, includes a souvenir magnet. For ages 7–12.
Where? Various sites across Israel
When? Throughout Hanukkah
Cost? 35 shekels per kit
Major Hanukkah shows and musicals (ticketed)
43. Adventures in the Lost Forest – A Bravo circus show with seasonal themes and international performers. Cost: 119 shekels
44. 'Simba: King of the Savannah' – A musical about a young lion’s coming-of-age journey. Cost: 119 shekels
45. Solstars – A live show with Israeli internet celebrities, challenges and music. Hosted by Liron Weizman. Cost: 159 shekels.
46. Dinosaur Magic – A musical dinosaur adventure starring Michal HaKtana and others. Cost: 109 shekels.
47. Magic Hat – A musical tribute to Leah Goldberg's book by the Israeli Hasha'a Theater. Cost: 69-129 shekels
48. Motek Me'ha'agadot – A mega-production for toddlers, produced by the creators of the Festigal, the show marks its 15th anniversary this year, featuring Israeli children’s stars and, for the first time, 'Fireman Sam'. Cost: 159 shekels.
49. Hallelujah – A musical journey with Yuval HaMevulbal and Rinat Gabay through Jewish history, from the days of Noah’s Ark and the flood, through the Exodus from Egypt, the destruction of the Temple and the return to Zion, all the way to the declaration of the State of Israel. Cost: 109 shekels.
50. The Heart – A dramatic retelling of Marco starring Shlomo Baraba, Michal Yannai and Liat Achiron. Cost: 109 shekels.