Passover in Jerusalem 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Events, Dining & Tradition

 Jerusalem during Passover (Pesach) is an experience like no other. As the city transitions into spring, the ancient stones of the Old City hum with the energy of thousands of pilgrims, while the modern city transforms into a "Chametz-free" zone. Whether you are coming for the Birkat Kohanim at the Western Wall or looking for the best kosher-for-Passover restaurants, this guide covers everything you need to know for your 2026 holiday.

The "Essentials":

Quick Guide: Passover 2026 Dates

Seder Night: Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Chol HaMoed (Intermediate Days): Friday, April 3 – Tuesday, April 7
Second Holiday (Yom Tov): Wednesday, April 8 (Ends evening of April 9 for tourists)

The "Kosher" Shift

In Jerusalem, "Kosher for Passover" isn't just a label; it’s a city-wide transformation. Most supermarkets will drape aisles of "chametz" (leavened bread/pasta) in plastic, and restaurants will switch to special menus.
Kitniyot vs. Non-Kitniyot: Many Jerusalem restaurants serve kitniyot (legumes/rice). If you follow Ashkenazi customs that forbid these, look for "Non-Kitniyot" or "Mehadrin" certifications.

Transportation

Note that public buses and the Light Rail do not run on the first and last days of the holiday (April 2 and April 8-9). During Chol HaMoed, expect heavy traffic and packed trains near the Old City.
 

The most iconic event of the holiday takes place at the Western Wall (Kotel). Tens of thousands of people gather to receive the blessing from hundreds of Kohanim.
When: Expected Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Good to know: Arrive by 7:30 AM to secure a spot; the area becomes impassable by mid-morning.

The First Station is a vibrant culinary hub, offering an eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes that cater to every visitor. The complex features a diverse range of dining options, including both Kosher and non-Kosher establishments, ensuring a welcoming experience for all audiences. From authentic Middle Eastern flavors and grill houses to trendy coffee shops and sweet treats, the open-air atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a family meal, a romantic evening, or a refreshing break during the holiday.

When? Specific dates and times will be released soon.

The Israel Museum is expected to be open throughout Chol HaMoed, offering a fascinating range of activities for the entire family. From the iconic Shrine of the Book and the impressive Model of Second Temple Jerusalem to interactive art workshops and special holiday exhibitions, the museum provides an enriching and memorable experience. It’s the perfect destination to combine culture, history, and creativity in one of Jerusalem's most beautiful settings.

When? Specific dates and times will be released soon.
Where? Derech Ruppin 11, Jerusalem

The Tower of David Jerusalem Museum offers a breathtaking holiday experience within the walls of the ancient citadel. Visitors can explore the newly renovated galleries, enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the Old and New City, and immerse themselves in Jerusalem’s rich history. During the evenings, the citadel comes to life with spectacular night experiences, making it a must-visit destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.

When? Specific dates and times will be released soon.
Where? Jaffa gate, Jerusalem

Passover at the Biblical Zoo – Activities, Animal Encounters, and a Big Celebration for the Whole Family!

Nestled in the Jerusalem landscape, the Biblical Zoo is a place where nature meets curiosity, and every Passover, it comes to life in new ways. Among the palm trees, walking paths, and water pools, exciting new experiences await, bringing you closer to the animals.

In the heart of the Jerusalem landscape lies the Biblical Zoo – a place where nature comes to life. Among lush walking trails, water pools, and open spaces, you’ll meet animals from all over the world and enjoy an experience of nature, discovery, and fun for the whole family.

During the intermediate days of Passover, a special experience awaits – with a variety of activities, fascinating animal encounters, and a sense of freedom surrounded by trees, water, and animals.

When? Throughout the holidays
Where? Derech Aharon Shulov 1, Jerusalem

The Jerusalem Aquarium invites you to a unique holiday experience, Nature, and imagination. Among the Mediterranean exhibits, jellyfish, and whales – a vibrant exhibition, creative workshops, and interactive activities await, perfect for the whole family.

When? Throughout the holidays
Where? Derech Aharon Shulov, Jerusalem

Join us on a thrilling adventure diving deep into the city's hidden secrets, presented through a film with special effects. Language won't be a barrier, as the show is available in Hebrew, English, Russian, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Mandarin Chinese. This journey will genuinely allow you to experience the essence of Jerusalem and its beautiful mystery hidden beneath the ground and behind its walls.

Using multi-sensory technology, the Time Elevator is an enriching and entertaining way to introduce the whole family to the past 3,000 years of Jerusalem's history.

• When? Throughout the holiday
  Where? In the indoor complex of the Mamilla Mall, Jerusalem
• Accessible

Connect with history and heritage this coming Passover and enjoy a variety of special experiences for the whole family at the City of David sites:

Combined Ticket:
What’s included in the Combined Ticket?
Experience the great outdoors at the agricultural farm in Ben Hinnom Valley, – Engage in a variety of fun activities, watch fascinating demonstrations, and visit the longest suspension bridge in the country.
Red Kidron – Walking tours of the historical monuments, which are filled with beautiful red blooming flowers, children’s shows, an interactive escape game, and much more.
Where? National Park Jerusalem Walls, Dror Eliel, Jerusalem

A tour of the biblical city of David - discover the secrets of the biblical Jerusalem, walk where many of the stories of the Bible took place, and go through underground passages. Join a magical and mysterious journey between brown shafts and ancient fortifications in the City of David.
City of David: Corner of the Western Wall - The City of David National Park opens a window to the Jerusalem of Herod's time and the Second Temple. Under the main street of the ancient city, an underground tunnel was hidden, and it was used as a hiding place for the last rebels on the eve of the destruction of the Temple. The route ends at the foundations of the Western Wall.
Where? Ma'alot City of David, Jerusalem

The Hallelujah show - witness the immersive night show of the City of David displayed on top of the antiquities, and tells the story of the return to Zion. The show combines spectacular pyrotechnics of fire and water - an unforgettable multi-sensory experience!
Where? Dror Eliel, Jerusalem

When? Throughout the holiday
Unaccessible

The Cacao Forest invites you to a unique activity - a fun workshop for the whole family during which you will make dozens of kosher pralines for Passover (under the supervision of the Rabbinate), tour a genuine chocolate factory, and discover the secrets of the most beloved candy.

You are invited to a family praline workshop in the cocoa forest for this Passover. The workshop will teach us how chocolate is born, filled, and packed. We will pack dozens of kosher pralines for Passover, which will return home with us. And, of course, we will tour the small boutique chocolate factory of the Cocoa Forest.

The workshop suits children of three and older, youth, and adults. Sitting at separate tables for each group.

• When? Throughout the holiday
  Where? Poalei Tzedek 2, Jerusalem
• Partially accessible

Join Us This Passover for a Colorful, Energetic Family Adventure!

From April 1 to April 8, 2026, dive into a world of color, curiosity, and surprises for the whole family.

Discover how unexpected connections — between materials and between people — spark reactions that are fascinating, moving, and sometimes even a little magical.

With a thrilling live show, fun science experiments, and exciting games for all ages, you'll see that chemistry isn't just a science — it's a thrilling adventure waiting to be explored!

“We left Egypt with a sack and a stick; we walked the desert to the Land of Israel..." (lyrics of the song “Exodus.” Lyrics: Orly Binder, Composer: Amos Barzel). 

Jerusalem is an endless source of exciting, inspiring, and educating tours. iTravelJerusalem picked the best of Jerusalem gems for you, so you’ll always have something new and thrilling to explore on each of your visits. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and history of this one-of-a-kind city. 

Join a contemporary and moving tour of two fascinating exhibitions on display at the Museum of Tolerance: "06:29 - From Darkness to Light" and "Documenting Israel: Visions of 75 Years."

The exhibition "06:29 - From Darkness to Light" is a moving production by the Museum of Tolerance, revealing the depth of the unimaginable evil that occurred on October 7, 2023. In the exhibition, you will be exposed to testimonies of brave women who survived the inferno, chilling documentation by photographer Ziv Koren, and performances that focus on the ‘Arvut Hadadit’ (Mutual Responsibility) demonstrated by citizens of the State of Israel and Jewish communities worldwide since then.

In addition, the tour includes a visit to the exhibition "Documenting Israel: Visions of 75 Years," which brings visitors face to face with spectacular archival photographs from the history of the State of Israel.

When? During holiday periods (dates to be announced)
Where? :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The Museum on the Seam for Contemporary Art opens its doors for special Passover tours!

The tours will explore three exhibitions: Flammable Materials, Monuments, and Pitas, offering an open discussion on contemporary art, social museums, and the connections between art and Israeli reality. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at the museum's operations – as well as uncover untold stories.  Additionally, a historical overview of the building itself will be provided – its location, its remarkable past, and how all these elements integrate into the museum’s work today.

When? Throughout the holidays
Where? 4 Heil Ha'handasa st., Jerusalem

The Jerusalem House of Quality invites you to this fascinating Jerusalem history tour. The tour will reveal surprising and unknown legends, show you the city’s unique arts and crafts communities, and include a panoramic lookout of the city from the building's rooftop.

• The crests of the Scottish aristocracy
• The Armenian ceramics room is full of original, early-20th-century works
• The beautiful Arabic-style courtyard
• An explanation of the history behind the building
• A lesson on the jewelry-making process as it was 2,000 years ago
• A 2,700-year-old silver scroll containing the priestly blessing written in ancient Hebrew script
• A meeting with some of Jerusalem's best artists in their workshops
• A guided lookout over the landscape of the Old City walls and Yemin Moshe neighborhood from the roof of the House of Equality
• Artist workshops focusing on inspiration and creation

When? Throughout the holidays, by prior arrangement
Where? Derech Hebron 12, Jerusalem

Where to Eat: Kosher-for-Passover Restaurants