Looking to celebrate Halloween in Israel? Our spooky little guide will have you sorted for some Halloween fun in the Holy Land!
First things first – to be honest, they’ve only very recently started celebrating Halloween in Israel over the last few years. That’s probably down to the fact that Halloween is largely recognized as a Christian American holiday (and yes, you can also celebrate – mainly in Jerusalem, see below – the real reason for Halloween, which is the start of a feast called All Saints Day on November 1). And since the Jooz aren’t supposed to celebrate pagan festivities it’s no real surprise there’s a distinct lack of Halloween action.
So where can I buy Halloween costumes and decorations?
In Jerusalem, it’s gonna be tricky (if you know otherwise, please comment below) but for Tel Aviv, as is the case for finding goodies for Christmas, head down to south Tel Aviv. Here you’ll find most of the goodies you’ll need, including costumes and decorations. The primary area to head for is probably Herzl Street, and you might also be lucky near the Central Bus Station.
Where can I celebrate Halloween in Tel Aviv?
OK, Tel Aviv is probably the ultimate place to be if you’re looking to celebrate Halloween in Israel (but please remember, this ain’t the U S of A, and the options are still fairly limited).
The main places to party are going to be those bars and pubs that have some frequent American or European customers (but as Israelis are starting to get a little familiar with Halloween there may be a few smaller pubs in Tel Aviv that have some great parties happening – keep your ears open!).
The top places to catch some Halloween action are some of the main hostels in Tel Aviv, including Abraham Hostel (their annual Halloween bash is usually FREE to enter if you dress up; they are also in Jerusalem, see below), clubs like Kuli Alma, which has an annual week of Halloween events to enjoy (see the clip below), performance areas like Bascula, and even the legendary mall Dizengoff Center, which has a Halloween Fair typically running over a couple of days.
There are plenty of other pubs and bars in Tel Aviv that will also be hosting Halloween parties, but as these will change from year to year, we’d suggest keeping your eyes open and your Israeli Facebook connections on speed dial.
Where can I celebrate Halloween in Jerusalem?
Yes, Jerusalem will be celebrating Halloween, whether you’re a believer and want to celebrate the feast known as All Saints Day, or you’re just looking for an excuse to get your scary mask out again and party…
If you’re feasting, head to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Notre Dame Center, or Dormition Abbey, where you can join a special mass in celebration of the start of All Saints Day, a very solemn Catholic feast that kicks off on November 1.
If you’re looking to party, options in Jerusalem are limited. Your best bet is the hostels, such as Abraham Hostel (see the clip below), or the more touristy bars such as Mike’s Place. They usually have Halloween shindigs worth attending. Apart from that, there may be a few bars that hold Halloween parties, but as this will change from year to year, your best hope is to check with some of the young and sexy locals.