Christmas Events 2025 in Jerusalem

Jerusalem becomes a radiant stage at Christmastime. Ancient walls draped with festive lights, soaring Christmas trees beside historic churches, guided tours through Bethlehem’s Manger Square, here the holiday comes alive in unexpected and unforgettable ways. Whether you’re joining midnight mass, exploring cobbled alleyways during a candle-lit walk, or marveling at towering light sculptures in a garden of stars, the city offers holiday moments you won’t find elsewhere.

This guide highlights the top Christmas events of 2025 in Jerusalem, so you can tailor your visit, be it an overnight stay, a family outing, or a meaningful pilgrimage, to capture the true spirit of the season.

Santa’s House is one of Jerusalem's most unique and magical places. Situated in an old stone house in the Old City of Jerusalem, Santa's House spreads love, joy, and peace to children in the Holy Land.  This unique place belongs to the Kassissieh Family, and they have been living here for the past 700 years! Inside the house, you'll find stone walls and arches, a domed ceiling, and a even fantasy room. You will also find plenty of hand-made decorations and a magical holiday atmosphere.

Click here for more details >

The most magical time of the year is back at the Jerusalem International YMCA. The annual Christmas Fair turns this historic landmark on King David Street into a festive hub filled with delicious food, warm drinks, handmade gifts, and activities for the whole family. It is a perfect place to soak up the holiday atmosphere in the heart of Jerusalem.

Market Dates & Opening Hours (2025):
Thursdays – December 4, 11, 18, 25: 17:00–23:00
Fridays – December 5, 12, 19, 26: 12:00–22:00

Where? Jerusalem International YMCA, 26 King David Street, Jerusalem.
Cost? 20 NIS per person (Christmas Fair ticket).
Who is it for? Families, couples, locals and visitors looking for a festive Christmas market experience.

Mark the Christmas holiday with a tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem that culminates with a festive dinner and midnight mass outside the Church of Nativity.  The top sites visited on this tour are: Mount of Olives, Church of the Nativity, Festive dinner in Manger Square, Midnight Mass.

Experience Christmas where it all began. This two-day guided tour brings you to the most significant sites of Christianity, including the Mount of Olives, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Church of the Nativity. Enjoy a festive dinner in Bethlehem’s Manger Square, witness the midnight mass*, stay overnight, and continue your Christmas Day journey through important biblical locations such as Shepherd’s Field and Ein Karem.

When? December 24–25, 2025 (Christmas Eve & Christmas Day).
Where? Jerusalem & Bethlehem, including Mount of Olives, Manger Square, Church of the Nativity, Shepherd’s Field, Ein Karem.
Cost? Price listed on booking page; includes dinner & accommodation. Single supplement may apply.
Who is it for? Adults and families (ages 4+), Christian travelers, holiday visitors.

*Entry to Midnight Mass is subject to availability and local restrictions.

Full itinerary & booking – 2-Day Christmas Tour of Jerusalem & Bethlehem 

One of the most spectacular winter events in Jerusalem, Winter Dreams brings a European-style light festival to the Jerusalem Botanical Garden. After touring iconic cities like Berlin, London, and Rome, this immersive exhibition arrives in Givat Ram with giant illuminated sculptures, colorful pathways, interactive 3D light displays, and a magical nighttime atmosphere filled with art and nature.

Nearly one million LED lights illuminate a 2-kilometer trail featuring creative installations such as a glowing train, heart trees, a dragon, fields of sparkling flowers, and nature-inspired light art that blends into the garden’s natural landscape. A culinary complex curated by renowned chef Moshik Roth completes the experience with glowing dishes, hot drinks, roasted chestnuts, chocolate, cheeses, and boutique wines, all kosher.

When? Throughout the winter season, including December 2025 holiday dates.
Where? Jerusalem Botanical Garden, Givat Ram.
Cost? Full price: 139 NIS; Advance: 119 NIS; Special iTravelJerusalem discount: 89 NIS (subject to availability).
Who is it for? Individuals, couples, families, and groups looking for a festive light experience.

Event details – Winter Dreams at the Botanical Garden 

In Jerusalem, you will find several churches that invite the public to attend Christmas Midnight Mass and other ceremonies. Regardless of religion or faith, these ceremonies are a powerful tourist experience. 

Church of the Holy Sepulcher 

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City and is considered one of the holiest sites for many followers of Christian traditions. Here, according to the Christian Orthodox denomination, Jesus was crucified, buried, and ascended to heaven. The church has been an important pilgrimage destination since the fourth century and is home to all the Orthodox denominations of Christianity. 

More about the Church of the Holy Sepulcher >> 

Christ church Jerusalem 

The Church of Christ is located inside the Jaffa Gate and hosts tourists and visitors on Christmas Eve and on the holiday itself.  Christmas Service times (Israel time):

• Christmas Eve Open House 17:00 -22:00
• Nine Lessons and Carols 22:30, Followed by Holy Communion
• Christmas Day Service 10:30

Click here for more information and about special events during Christmas 

Other Churches 

Would you like to join the incredible holiday rituals, yet avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience? It is recommended to check out the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion and the Tomb of the Virgin Mary located in Gethsemane.

To service time and information to all Churches in Jerusalem click here >>

Join one of Jerusalem’s most beloved holiday celebrations as the city’s tallest Christmas tree comes to life at the historic Jerusalem International YMCA. With festive music, ringing tower bells, Santa’s visit, and a warm, joyful atmosphere, this annual lighting event gathers families and visitors from all backgrounds to celebrate the holiday spirit of peace and unity.

When? November 30, 2025 • 17:00–19:00 (Sunday).
Where? Jerusalem International YMCA, 26 King David Street, Jerusalem.
Cost? Ticket proceeds support charity programs helping all communities.
Who is it for? Families, locals, visitors, and anyone seeking festive cheer.

Event details – Christmas Tree Lighting at YMCA Jerusalem 

The New Gate, at the edge of the Christian Quarter, has become one of Jerusalem’s most photogenic Christmas spots. In recent years, a tall Christmas tree, festive light installations, and seasonal decorations have turned this historic gateway into a welcoming entrance to the Old City, especially in the evenings. Local Christians, residents and visitors gather here to enjoy the lights, browse nearby stalls and continue into the alleys and churches of the Christian Quarter for more Christmas celebrations.

When? Typically decorated throughout December, with tree lighting events often held in mid-December in the early evening (check the current year’s program for exact dates and times).
Where? The New Gate, northern entrance to the Christian Quarter, Old City of Jerusalem.
Why go? A festive mix of Christmas lights, Old City walls, and local community atmosphere, ideal before or after visiting nearby churches and markets.

More about The New Gate  >> 

For a sweeping Christmas view of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus is one of the most inspiring vantage points in the city. Overlooking both the Old City and the modern skyline, it offers a broad panorama that takes in the Dome of the Rock, the Mount of Olives, and the surrounding hills. Many Christmas tours include a stop here around sunset or early evening, when church towers, neighborhoods, and landmarks begin to light up and the city feels especially atmospheric.

When? Best experienced around sunset and into the early evening during the Christmas season, when city lights are most visible.
Where? Mount Scopus, northeast Jerusalem, near the Hebrew University campus.
Why go? A dramatic, elevated viewpoint to take in Jerusalem’s holiday lights and historic skyline in a single frame.

Just opposite the New Gate and a short walk from the Old City, the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center is a landmark Christian guesthouse that becomes especially atmospheric at Christmas. It's famous Rooftop Cheese & Wine Restaurant offers fine dining with panoramic views over the Old City walls, church domes, and the illuminated skyline. Guests can enjoy a curated selection of local and international wines, generous cheese platters, and creative dishes prepared by the in-house chef, all in an elegant open-air setting overlooking Jerusalem.

In addition to the rooftop, the Notre Dame Center also operates indoor dining rooms and a bistro, making it a versatile option for pilgrims, groups, and independent travelers. During the Christmas season, the combination of tasteful decorations, Christian ambiance, and proximity to the Christian Quarter and New Gate churches makes it a natural base for holiday meals and gatherings.

Where? Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center, 3 HaTsanhanim Street, opposite the New Gate and near the Old City.
Atmosphere? Classic, elegant, and explicitly Christian, with some of the best Old City views in Jerusalem – ideal for Christmas dinners, small celebrations, and sunset drinks before or after services in nearby churches.

More about Notre Dame  >> 

City View is a popular choice for guests looking to combine a festive meal with impressive views over Jerusalem. Known for its elevated position and wide city vistas, it serves Mediterranean and European-style dishes and is often recommended for special evenings and romantic occasions. Around Christmas, the nighttime cityscape and cooler air create an especially cozy setting for dinner or drinks with a view of Jerusalem’s lights and landmarks.

Where? City View Restaurant, in the Jerusalem area, with sweeping views over the city (check current address and reservations details when booking).
Atmosphere? Relaxed yet elegant, with a strong focus on the panorama; suitable for couples, small groups, and visitors who want a scenic Christmas-season meal.