This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small commission at no addition cost to you. Please read our disclaimer for more information.
Christmas is a great time of the year! People seem to be filled with a joy that is contagious. And even though shopping for presents may be a chore, it is a chore that is tolerated due to the joy you know that it will bring to those you love. If you are not of the Christian faith, on the one hand you get to enjoy the ambiance without having to shop for presents, yet you don’t receive any presents either. All in all, Christmas is fun for everyone who cares to be infected by the festive spirit, irrespective of faith.
Christmas in the Holy Land
For something a little different though, a Christmas trip to the Holy Land will definitely change your outlook about the festival. For starters, as a country with a predominantly Jewish population (approximately 6 million of the 8 million inhabitants are Jewish, 1.6 million Arabs), Israel is not dominated by the marketing excesses of Christmas familiar to Christian countries. Also, Christmas often corresponds with the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, an 8 day festival commemorated by the lighting of a candelabrum and the digestion of lots of oil soaked foods. Consequently, a visit to Israel for Christmas also allows you to enjoy a happy and visually appealing Jewish festival – just watch your waistline.
As Israel is deemed holy and important by the three major monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; Christmas in Israel adds a completely different perspective to Xmas outside Israel.
Holy Sites in Israel
An opportunity to visit the World Heritage Site, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem – the oldest continually operating Christian church in the world[1] and attend the Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day service is a once in a lifetime opportunity for anyone of the Christian faith. And the chance to do so in Bethlehem, the purported birth place of Jesus makes this even more significant.
There are numerous other churches and sites of significance for Christians in Israel which are a must-see for followers of any faith. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Gethsemane Church are but two examples of significant churches located in Jerusalem, however there are significant sites holy to Christians scattered throughout Israel.
Pleasant weather
The weather during December, depending on where you are in the Holy Land, varies from warm and sunny to cold and rainy, yet the Israeli winters are very temperate by U.S. or European standards, making Christmas in Israel a fun experience. Just make sure to book in advance as accommodation for youth hostels, hotels and luxury apartments tend to fill up fast. If you are traveling as a family, renting an apartment could be great idea to feel at home as well as on a holiday.
Party in Tel Aviv
In Tel Aviv you won’t feel the Christmas atmosphere like in Jerusalem. However, Tel Aviv is known for its great night life, and there are some great parties with a Christmas theme, so don’t forget your Santa hats!
About the author:
Sharon loves to write about travels, luxury travels, spiritual travels and more, shares many interests and tips about Israel luxury real estate and many more topics.
[1] Charley, William. “The Holy City, Athens and Egypt.” P. 150. 1902.
