Israel Festival 2014

The Israel Festival, the largest and most prestigious cultural official event of the year, is set to renew ties with local creators and performers, something that had not been a focus over the past few years. Taking place from May 29 to June 20, it will kick off with a homage to late beloved singer, writer and actor Yossi Banai, born and raised in the capital's Mahaneh Yehuda neighborhood, and will also feature a special evening with Assaf Avidan – also Jerusalem-born and raised, and nowadays an internationally acclaimed singer and writer. Additionally, former city council member and actor and singer Yehoram Gaon, well-known for his Jerusalem roots (spotlighted in his film I Am a Jerusalemite) will host another Israeli living legend, singer Esther Ofarim, in a special gala evening. Besides these local and high-quality programs, the 2014 festival offers a wide range of events – dance, theater and music, comprising classical, ethnic and jazz – from various parts of the world. The festival also marks the end of Yossi Tal-Gan's 20 years at its helm. Once a city council member and a candidate for mayor, Tal-Gan has put his fingerprint on many aspects of the city's cultural life – first as head of the municipality's culture department, later as CEO of both the Israel Festival and the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra (until four years ago). Tal-Gan announced his departure at the opening of the press conference, indicating it was time to transfer the mantle to new hands. This year, many festival programs will be featured on weekends, and will be offered to the public at special prices including accommodations. Moreover, throughout the festival month, a series of open-door performances will be held free of charge.

Israel Festival 2014

The 2014 festival offers a wide range of events – dance, theater and music, comprising classical, ethnic and jazz – from various parts of the world.

US Army secretary expected to step down by year's end

IDF strikes terrorist in Syria preparing attack

Israel Festival 2014

The 2014 festival offers a wide range of events – dance, theater and music, comprising classical, ethnic and jazz – from various parts of the world.

See more on