From July 7–17, the 33rd Jerusalem Film Festival will light up screens at the Jerusalem Cinematheque and various venues across the city, opening at the historic Sultan’s Pool with Pedro Almodóvar’s acclaimed film Julieta. The festival will screen more than 200 innovative Israeli and international films and feature a competition showcasing feature films from around the world. Audiences can expect premieres, retrospectives, panel discussions, and a diverse program that highlights new voices and established filmmakers.
Also taking place in July is the 32nd Voice of Music in the Upper Galilee, a five-day concert series running from July 12 through July 16. Now in its third decade, the festival presents world-class performances and unique musical projects. One notable program is Ohad Ben-Ari’s Violins of Hope, performed by Jewish soloists and members of the Israel Camerata Jerusalem using restored violins that survived the Holocaust. These instruments are curated by violin maker Amnon Weinstein, who collects and restores violins from the World War II era to preserve their history and sound.
The Voice of Music festival also offers film screenings, open rehearsals, artist talks, and opportunities to meet the performers. The repertoire spans chamber music, vocal works, and orchestral programs, ensuring a varied and engaging experience for classical music lovers. Returning artists this year include Croatian guitarist Petrit Çeku, Berlin Philharmonic harpist Marie-Pierre Langlamet, and violinist and chamber musician Boris Brovtsyn, all of whom have drawn acclaim for their solo and ensemble work.
Both festivals contribute to a lively cultural calendar, drawing audiences who appreciate cinema and live music. The Jerusalem Film Festival provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase contemporary trends and emerging talent, while Voice of Music in the Upper Galilee emphasizes intimate performances and musical heritage projects that connect history with present-day artistry.
Visitors attending either event will find screenings, concerts, and special presentations staged in venues chosen to enhance the experience, from historic outdoor locations to state-of-the-art concert halls. The combination of cinematic premieres and evocative live music programs makes July a rich month for arts and culture in Israel.
