Local musicians and international performers will gather in Jerusalem from March 31 to April 3 for a lively program that spans gospel, jazz and traditional Armenian music. The Sounds of the Old City series presents concerts in front of the Old City’s Jaffa Gate and follows a circular route through the Armenian, Jewish, Muslim and Christian quarters before returning to Jaffa Gate. Contemporary songs and ancient melodies blend with a diverse array of instruments, creating musical encounters that highlight the city’s cultural variety and bring people together.
From April 1 to 8, the Jerusalem Arts Festival fills indoor and outdoor venues across the city with hundreds of singers, instrumentalists, dancers and visual artists. The week-long festival features performances and events that range from chamber music and experimental theater to dance and multimedia installations, offering both local talent and international guests.
On May 25 the Israel Festival begins a three-week season of theater, dance and music that showcases ambitious productions and acclaimed ensembles. This year’s program includes creative productions such as Dressed to Dance: Picasso and Dali Dance Flamenco, performances by Israeli musician Shlomi Shaban, and international presentations from companies like the Grand Théâtre de Genève and Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. The season also highlights prominent ensembles such as the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, the New Israeli Vocal Ensemble, the Barrocade Collective and the State Choir of Latvia.
These festivals provide multiple opportunities to experience Jerusalem’s thriving cultural scene: outdoor concerts that animate historic streets, curated indoor programs that present cutting-edge work, and large-scale productions that bring global artists to local stages. Together they form an annual rhythm of artistic exchange that draws residents and visitors into the city’s public spaces and concert halls.
Whether you prefer intimate acoustic sets in ancient lanes, contemporary dance in modern theaters, or full orchestral and choral concerts, the season’s lineup offers a spectrum of artistic experiences. The combination of historic settings and diverse programming underscores Jerusalem’s role as a crossroads for artistic traditions, making these events important moments for cultural dialogue and discovery.
Plan ahead to attend performances in preferred venues and check schedules for exact dates and times. With events spread across the Old City and throughout Jerusalem’s theaters and parks, audiences can craft a personalized festival itinerary that combines music, dance and theater in one visit.