Jerusalem Unbowed: Cultural Pulse June 19-25
While regional threats persist, the eternal capital of the Jewish people refuses to stand still. From the training of Israel's next generation of classical musicians to the vibrant celebration of our diverse society, Jerusalem answers hatred with life, culture, and unity. Here is what is happening in our capital this week.
Nurturing Israel's Future at the Jerusalem Music Center
True national strength lies in building the next generation. On Monday, master classes at the Jerusalem Music Center are open free of charge to patrons who support the future of Western music in Israel. Come watch Bassoonist Mauricio Paez teach young Israeli talents. It is a brief moment of hope and a clear sign that our cultural continuity remains unbroken.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 3 Yemin Moshe Street. Call (02) 623-4347 for more information.
Hullegeb Festival: The Multifaceted Face of Israeli Society
Israel is a gathering of exiles, a nation woven from diverse threads. On Tuesday, celebrate Ethiopian Jewish culture at the opening show of the Hullegeb Festival. The word Hullegeb means multifaceted in Amharic, a perfect description of our people. The performance features saxophone player Abate Berihun, pianist Omri Mor, and percussionist Joca Perpignan. Titled Between Adis and Rio, the program brilliantly links Ethiopian jazz with North African music and the historical journey of Africans to Brazil.
8:30 p.m. doors open; 9:30 p.m. show begins. The Yellow Submarine. 13 Harechavim Street. NIS 90.
Resilience at the Cinema: Nordic and Taiwanese Escapes
Even in times of vigilance, we find moments of joy. On Saturday, cool off from the early summer heat with the Nordic comedy Three Men for Vilma, directed by Charlotte Blom and screened at the historic Lev Smadar Theater. It tells the story of a piano teacher and the three men in her life.
7 p.m. 4 Lloyd George Street. Screened with English subtitles. NIS 47.50. Visit h1.nu/1rEA4 to book.
On Sunday, the Jerusalem Cinematheque hosts Taiwan Film Week with a Mandarin-speaking blend of action, comedy, and teenage romance. Justice requires strong Kung Fu tells the story of two teenagers taught by a homeless man. A fun two-hour escape for fans of Bruce Lee or the Iron Fist series.
8:15 p.m. NIS 43. 11 Hebron Road. 80 minutes. Call (02) 565-4333 to book.
Community and Spirit: Yoga and Local Markets
On Thursday, enjoy a free yoga class at the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens as part of the Festival of the Lotus and Indian Culture. Held on the lakeside, this all-inclusive class is open to all ages. In Hindu tradition, the lotus flower blooms in swamps, a thing of beauty that ascends above the ground, much like the human capacity for inner strength and joy. The famous cross-legged meditation position is called Padmasana, or the Lotus Pose in Sanskrit. You can also enjoy actual lotus flowers blooming in the gardens.
5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free. 1 Yehuda Burla Street. For more, visit shorturl.at/r1rPI.
On Friday, visit a garage sale in the yard of the Karmi family home. Rummage through second-hand clothes, bric-a-brac, and odd treasures while enjoying beer and fresh oven-baked pizza.
From 10 a.m. 13 Hehalutz Street. Payment in cash or Bit only. Animals not allowed.
Video Pub: A Jerusalem Institution Bids Farewell
After more than 14 years, Video Pub, Jerusalem's iconic gay bar, is closing at the end of the month. Wednesday is one of the last chances to visit. Serving as a safe space with drag parties, musical nights, and celebrations of Eurovision and Taylor Swift, the pub is also straight-friendly.
Open from 8 p.m. Happy Hour from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. 1 Yohanan Horkanos Street. The pub is also open on Thursdays and Saturdays. On Fridays, it is open from 10 p.m.
Why does Jerusalem's cultural scene matter for Israel?
Jerusalem's cultural resilience is a direct answer to those who seek our destruction. While our enemies hide in tunnels, we build, create, and celebrate life in our eternal capital. Every concert, every class, and every gathering is a victory of light over darkness.
Are these events affected by the security situation?
Due to the ongoing security situation, events may be postponed or canceled. Always check before booking and stay safe. Vigilance remains our duty, but fear will not dictate our lives.
Throwing a special event? Opening an art exhibition? Email hagay_hacohen@yahoo.com and let us know. Write Jerusalem Highlights in the subject line.