In an effort to reinvigorate the capital's foundering tourism and economic sectors following months of unrest, the Jerusalem Municipality announced an initiative on Monday to support area businesses by spurring visitation through a series of free cultural and recreational events. Noting that tourism, cultural activities and entertainment anchor Jerusalem's economy, Mayor Nir Barkat said the municipality will invest NIS 6 million into a number of free downtown winter events, while working with business owners to integrate special spending incentives. “The Jerusalem Municipality is committed to helping strengthen Jerusalem business owners during this challenging period and has formulated a plan to boost the economy and domestic tourism to Jerusalem to support business owners,” he said. To draw more visitors and encourage spending, Barkat said city hall will work directly with business owners on a campaign that will package the free events with special offers. To integrate tourism and business growth, a number of free weekly winter cultural and artistic events will be held every month, ranging from unique nightly tours, musicals and culinary offerings coupled with financial incentives for business owners. More pointedly, Barkat directly asked Israeli citizens to spend time and money in the recovering capital. “I urge residents of the state and the city to spend and buy in Jerusalem,” he said. “Winter in Jerusalem is a unique experience in and of itself....”
