10 Unforgettable Ways to Celebrate Yom Yerushalayim 

Yom Yerushalayim, celebrated tonight May 25th - May 26th 2025, is the 58th anniversary of Jerusalem’s reunification in 1967, a triumphant moment when the city’s ancient heart, including the Western Wall and Temple Mount, returned to Jewish sovereignty.

This Jerusalem Day, the Ministry of Jerusalem and Tradition invites you to dive into the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and festive spirit. From historic battlegrounds to archaeological wonders, here are 10 unforgettable ways to celebrate in the eternal capital, complete with addresses and pricing details where available.

1. Honor Heroes at Ammunition Hill

Start your day at Ammunition Hill, a key Six-Day War battle site where IDF soldiers fought to liberate Jerusalem. The museum at 5 Zalman Shragai St., Ramat Eshkol, offers immersive exhibits with artifacts, videos, and guided tours detailing the 1967 victory. Yom Yerushalayim often features special ceremonies here, including prayers and tributes to fallen soldiers.

Price: Adults 30 ILS, children/seniors 20 ILS, free for Jerusalem children/teens

Tip: Check for free guided tours on Jerusalem Day; book via www.givathatachmosht.org.il.

2. Celebrate in the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter in the Old City (access via Dung Gate or Zion Gate) is the heart of Yom Yerushalayim festivities. Join flag-waving parades, street performances, and prayers at the Western Wall, the holiest Jewish site.

Explore synagogues like the Hurva (28 HaYehudim St.) and enjoy local eateries. A special two-hour tour by the Jewish Development Company, including the Hurva Synagogue and Davidson Center, is offered at a discounted 10 ILS per person.

Price: Free to explore; guided tour 10 ILS.

Tip: Arrive early for the best spots during parades.

3. Discover History at the Tower of David Museum

Located at Jaffa Gate, Old City, the Tower of David Museum (Migdal David) traces Jerusalem’s 4,000-year history with interactive exhibits, holograms, and archaeological finds.

Climb the Phasael Tower for stunning views of the Old and New Cities, a perfect way to reflect on Jerusalem’s unity. Yom Yerushalayim may feature special events or the Night Spectacular light show.

Address: Jaffa Gate, Jerusalem.

Price: Adults 50 ILS, students 40 ILS, children/seniors/soldiers 25 ILS; combined museum and light show: adults 102 ILS, children 75 ILS.

Free for Jerusalem children/teens in 2025.

Tip: Book guided tours in English at 10:30 AM or 3:00 PM

https://www.funinjerusalem.com/tower-of-david

4. Step Back in Time at the Old Yishuv Court Museum

At 6 Or HaHayim St., Jewish Quarter, this intimate museum showcases Jewish life in the Old City before 1948, with restored rooms and artifacts. Yom Yerushalayim activities often include storytelling or guided tours, connecting visitors to the resilience of Jerusalem’s early Jewish community.

5. Walk the Walls Trail

Experience Jerusalem’s ancient fortifications on the Walls Trail, a 4-km path along the Old City ramparts from Jaffa Gate to Lion’s Gate. This scenic walk, offering panoramic views, is a poignant way to celebrate the city’s reunification. Organized group tours are common on Yom Yerushalayim, often starting at Jaffa Gate.

6. Explore Zedekiah’s Cave

Beneath the Old City, near Damascus Gate, Zedekiah’s Cave (Solomon’s Quarries) at 1 Sultan Suleiman St. offers a mystical journey into Jerusalem’s biblical past. This ancient quarry may host Yom Yerushalayim events like Shuli Rand’s concert or light shows, celebrating the city’s enduring legacy.

7. Join Festivities at the Ancient Gate

The Ancient Gate (likely referring to Lion’s Gate or Jaffa Gate, Old City) is a hub for Yom Yerushalayim celebrations, with music, dance, and parades celebrating the 1967 liberation. Expect flag-waving crowds and communal joy near the Old City’s historic entrances.

8. Shop and Celebrate at Chutzot Hayotzer

Chutzot Hayotzer, the Artists’ Colony at Hativat Yerushalayim St., Hinnom Valley, comes alive with markets, live music, and crafts. While the International Arts and Crafts Fair typically occurs in August, Yom Yerushalayim may feature pop-up events with food stalls and performances, reflecting Jerusalem’s creative spirit.

9. Unearth the Past at the City of David

The City of David, at Ma’alot Ir David St., Silwan, is Jerusalem’s ancient core, with sites like Hezekiah’s Tunnel and the Pool of Siloam. Yom Yerushalayim tours highlight its biblical significance and 1967 liberation. A water walk in Hezekiah’s Tunnel may be available.

10. Reflect at the Botanical Garden or Ein Yael

Unwind at the Jerusalem Botanical Garden (1 Yehuda Burla St., Nayot), with serene paths and themed gardens, or visit Ein Yael Archaeological Park (Harei Yehuda St., Emek HaArazim) for hands-on workshops and ancient ruins. Both may host Yom Yerushalayim activities like family crafts or guided tours.

Whether you’re praying at the Kotel, exploring ancient caves, or dancing in the streets, these activities capture the city’s unbreakable spirit. Join the festivities and experience the magic of a united Jerusalem.