CITYsights: Jerusalem raises its game for summer

The capital is bursting with so many things to do and see for the young, old, and everyone in between; check out this comprehensive list of what's on offer.

By ITRAVELJERUSALEM TEAM
view of Jerusalem with Old City (photo credit: ITRAVELJERUSALEM TEAM)
view of Jerusalem with Old City
(photo credit: ITRAVELJERUSALEM TEAM)
More and more attractions and cultural activities are taking place in Jerusalem this summer. "Take two days in Jerusalem", is part of an effort to bring tourists and locals from all over the country to visit Jerusalem. The city is bursting with so many things to do and see for the young, old, and everyone in between! Museums, concerts, parties, restaurants, and bustling street life are just some of the treats on the menu.
When it comes to history, archaeology and heritage – Jerusalem has it all, and brings Israel much national pride. But in recent years, Jerusalem is starting to evolve into the cultural capital of Israel. Take Jerusalem's diverse populations, rich history, along with the millions of people worldwide who have a strong affinity for the city you have a cultural wealth that surpasses any of Europe's capitals!
Let's review in a nutshell some of the cultural events happening this summer. It's enough to make other world capitals envy.  So get ready to experience it all…
The International Festival of Light, Knights Festival, International Film Festival, Puppets Theater Festival, Opera Festival, Balabasta Festival in Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem Beer Festival, Arts & Crafts Festival, End of Summer Celebration Festival, Wine Tasting Festival, Shalem Dance Festival, Ziggy Marley, Infected Mushrooms, Matisyahu, Eyal Golan, Renee Fleming and more!
Eat, Pray, Love
Mahane Yehuda Market is beautifully aesthetic, combining designer shops, quaint cafes, restaurants serving dishes from all over the world, and exclusive cheeses and wines.
At night you can go for entertainment until the early morning hours - Thursday and Saturday nights are particularly heated. Jaffa Street is closed off to all vehicles, and it already hosts the light rail which runs until late hours. Every week night, you will find downtown Jerusalem bustling with life, lots of people take to the streets, enjoying the variety of bars, night shows, and clubs in the area. 
So take two days in Jerusalem…
In light of the city's vast cultural events and a popular nightlife scene, it is highly recommended to come to Jerusalem for two days, at least.  The Jerusalem Development Authority has presented the "Take two days in Jerusalem" campaign, and announced that anyone staying in a hotel in Jerusalem is eligible for discounts on cultural events, festivals, concerts, museums, selected restaurants and attractions in the city. All you have to do is show the coupon you received from the hotel you are staying in, and it will take immediate effect.
In addition, there are free guided tours that can be booked in advance. Details can be found here. One of the tours, for example, is called "European Jerusalem". The tour takes an interesting look at buildings in Jerusalem, revealing the stories and details behind the structures from the 19th century Europe.
So, before you plan your holiday in Prague, take two days in Jerusalem.   Here are some things to be on the lookout for when in and about the city:
Israeli Wine Tasting Festival - A celebration of wine tasting from the leading wineries in Israel. Held outdoors at the Israel Museum, a ticket includes a wine glass, unlimited tasting, and admission to the Museum galleries.
International Arts & Crafts Fair - The Fair, which has taken place for more than thirty years, has become a tradition in Jerusalem and the largest tourist attraction of the Jerusalem summer season.
Jerusalem Beer Festival - The 7th annual Jerusalem Beer Festival at the Old Train Station in Jerusalem is set to serve over 50,000 liters of beer from over 150 different brands
Infected Mushroom & Berry Sakharof - Head to Sacher Park to enjoy electronic and Rock 'n Roll music!
Summer Nights in Mamilla Avenue – Mamilla will once again transform into a lively giant piazza with free street entertainment on Mondays and Thursdays.
Outstanding Concerts in Magical Surroundings - The famous duo Tehilim will be performing at the Museum of Psalms.
Theater in the Rough - Romeo & Juliet - Experience a new way of exploring theater, performance, and one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays
Never Never Land at the Botanical Gardens - Peter Pan, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell and Tiger Lily pay a visit, accompanied by fairies, mermaids, Indians and real pirates
Letters and More - The exhibition at the Tower of David addresses the invention of the alphabet - one of the most important revolutions in the history of communications.
"Look What a Bit of Color Can Do" - This year the Youth Wing's Activity Yard at the Israel Museum is being splashed with every color of the rainbow!
August Family Fun at Bible Lands Museum - Follow costumed actors on an exciting tour through the treasures of the Museum, as they bring to life your favorite Biblical stories.
Einat Sarouf in Concert - Tu Be'Av at the Tower of David: Celebration of Israeli Love with Einat Sarouf.
The International Festival of Puppet Theater - the Festival has become the primal source of creation and inspiration in the field of Puppet Theater in Israel.
Check out the video for the full story and stay tuned for more episodes of CITYsights.
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