Although year-round Israel is relatively temperate, there are certain times of the year to take advantage of the weather and especially coorelating holidays. There are numerous Jewish holidays and annual events, so be sure to take a look at a detailed calendar before booking your trip, as the influx of visitors and pricing is dramatically effected.

Fall & The Jewish High Holidays
September, October & November
Weather during the early Autumn months can still have the hot summer sun making a major impact. Don’t expect to pack scarves for chillier weather and falling leaves. Towards the end of September and the beginning of October, the weather finally starts to cool (still no long sleeves though!) and this is prime time for outdoor excursions. Head over to the mystical city of Safed, where the fresh breeze, charming blue doors and architecural accents, as well as the overarching spiritual energy is felt in all its glorious facets. The Jewish high holidays typically land during the early Fall months, and the whole country is rife with celebratory festivities for the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashannah and the subsequent holidays of Yom Kippur (a day of fasting, pennance, and forgiveness) and Sukkot (a week-long harvest holiday) so be sure to check for special events, as well as opening and closing hours, as the majority of businesses are observant during these times.

Winter & the Hannukah-Christmas Season
December, January & February
Winter in Israel is relatively mild, bringing intermittent rain showers and a bit cloudier weather. It doesn’t stop visitors and locals alike from spending quality time at the beach, which still attracts swimmers, volleyball and matkot players (Israel’s unoffical “national sport” of paddle ball), as well as folk dancers of all ages pairing off at Gordon Beach every Saturday for traditional twirls and communal gathering. December is a highly-anticipated month of festivities around the world, and what better way to celebrate the birth of Jesus than in his actual homeland? Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Jaffa, Nazareth and Haifa are all lit up in his honor, with ancient churches hosting mass, and pilgrims from all corners of the globe keeping vigil. For Hannukah, there is not a corner of the country that isn’t celebrating with joyous music, dancing, menorah-lighting ceremonies, and of course, the obligatory sufganiot tastings (delicious donuts crafted especially for the holiday).