Planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in Jerusalem

However satisfying the outcome, the planning are fraught with challenges, hoops and hurdles, so it's important to understand what you need to do for a successful celebration... and whether you want to take on the challenge yourself or hire a professional event planner to do the dirty work. We've invited a handful of Israeli event planners to share their thoughts on the most important things to think about before having a bar/bat mitzvah in Jerusalem or anywhere in Israel, and they have some great tidbits. If you have a specific issue you're wondering about use our handy dandy table of contents to navigate there directly:

• Choosing a venue
• Ceremony at the Kotel (Western Wall)
• Alternatives to the Kotel
• Accommodation for family & guests
• The Celebratory Meal
• Saving money through VAT refunds and exemptions
• Photography & video
• Tours
• Buying tefillin

Celebrate Your Child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah With a Tour of Israel

 
Celebrations in Israel - Private Events (Photo: Yuval Yosef).

 Photo: Tal Dafna 

Nothing can make or break an event like the venue, whether you're talking about the ceremony or the reception. Jerusalem is so full of stunning venues that it can actually be hard to choose. Revital Azulay of Revital Events says that while the venue itself is certainly important, your personality, your child, guests and what kind of event you want to have is an equal deciding factor. "When starting to plan a bar/bat Mitzvah in Jerusalem you  have to choose the right location, a place with a unique theme depending on the bar/bat Mitzvah child's interests," she says. "You also must take into account the season when the  event will take place to decide whether it will be indoors or outdoors. I usually recommend to plan an event in Israel between the months of March and October. 

Since you almost never have to worry about rain during this time, you can confidently celebrate outdoors and enjoy the view of the Old City of Jerusalem. "In addition, it is very important to choose a location that is unique and has a special value to it -- for example an ancient synagogue with lots history to it, an art gallery with a landscape of Jerusalem or a restaurant located in a unique area, such as Mishkenot Sha'ananim. "And when it comes to food, don't mess around. Always choose a restaurant with a professional chef to enjoy a real culinary experience in Jerusalem!" 

Check out our full listing of restaurants for bar/bat mitzvahs >>              

"Celebrating their son's Bar Mitzvah at the Kotel is a dream come true for many parents," says Tanya Hakimian of Amazing Simchas. "The question is, where do you start planning for an event like this?

"First, make sure you have set a budget to help you focus on the important aspects of the day. Sit down and write a list of everything you want for this special occasion, and keep it with you at all times so you can track your spending.

"Second, the weather is a factor I would definitely take into account. In the summer, it is really hot, and in the winter, it can get quite cold, so come prepared.

"Third, make sure everything is organized well in advance so you do not get stressed on the day.

"Although Jerusalem is a beautiful city, it comes with challenges. You will find that parking is a nightmare, and it is best to organize buses for your guests. You should also consider small children, older family members, and guests with disabilities when deciding how to get to the Kotel. There is quite a bit of walking involved, and not all of your guests may be up for it. We always do our best to come up with creative solutions to these issues."

For families who either cannot or prefer not to celebrate at the Kotel, Adena is a big fan of the Davidson Center because of its stunning grounds, accommodations for progressive services, historical significance, and proximity to the Kotel. If you are unable to take advantage of the spirituality the Kotel adds to a ceremony, she suggests choosing a location with a view of the Kotel or a meaningful theme to add significance. If you plan on having an Orthodox ceremony and are looking for another historically significant venue, check out the Hurva Synagogue.

Photo: Davidson Archaeological Center

"Very often, families ask me to help them find a theme for the party that relates to a meaningful cause or activity close to their hearts," she says. "Some examples we have done with clients include volunteer projects or donations to organizations in Israel, such as care packages for IDF soldiers, donating musical instruments or sports equipment to schools, food packages for the needy, or supporting playgrounds, parks, or orphanages. Revital also suggests several alternative locations around the city, such as:

• Hotel Yehuda in South Jerusalem
• David's Harp Gallery in the Old City

Both venues have areas that can be transformed into synagogues with beautiful views. In addition, Yad Vashem can be a particularly moving and meaningful setting. If you are open to locations beyond Jerusalem, consider these alternative options across the country:

• Desert: Begin with morning prayers at an ancient synagogue in Masada, hike up the mountain, and conclude with a dinner celebration by the Dead Sea, complete with tables, chairs, lighting, and live music.
• Seaside: Start the day in Old Jaffa and celebrate in the evening in Caesarea by the water, with lighting, an orchestra, and gourmet food.
• True Kindness: Celebrate in a school for children with disabilities or children from difficult homes who might not otherwise have a celebration of their own.

Planning for Different Denominations of Judaism

People from all walks of Jewish life come to Jerusalem to celebrate Bar and Bat Mitzvahs because "Jerusalem holds religious significance to Jewish people regardless of their level of observance," says Adena Mark of A to Z Events Israel. However, your level of observance will certainly influence the type of celebration you plan and the venues available to you. For example, "if the family does not want the separation of men and women or wants the Bat Mitzvah girl to read from the Torah, then the Kotel is not the right location. But that does not have to be a challenge," she adds. "There is something for everyone in Jerusalem. It is simply a matter of understanding what is available and choosing the right venue. Having the ceremony elsewhere still allows the family to celebrate according to their customs and level of observance while preserving the emotional and spiritual connection to Jerusalem."

Finding accommodation for a bar/bat mitzvah means not only finding it for your family but often also for your guests, so it typically pays to go with a hotel that is used to hosting large groups.

 Photo: Bell Hotel (Pa'amonim Aparthotel)

Another highly recommended hotel is Bell Hotel. Located in the center of Jerusalem and nearby the Old City, this hotel is perfect for family accommodation and ideal for hosting private events of up to 100 guests. This hotel allows you to celebrate your Bar Mitzva event in a beautifully designed venue with all of the equipment and amenities that you might need. You'll find a brand-new sound system, a microphone, screening equipment, and more. The hotel serves Mehadrin food approved by Badatz Jerusalem. The staff is very attentive and will take care of any special requests you may have.

 Photo: Prima Royale Hotel 

If you enjoy your intimacy, we highly recommend checking Prima Royale Hotel. Inspired by the art and culture of Jerusalem, this hotel is located on a quiet street right at the City Center. You will enjoy easy and comfortable access to the light rail and the Old City. If you’re planning on hosting an event, you will also find 133 rooms with spacious suites to accommodate the whole family. In addition, the hotel offers a beautiful event venue for up to 170 guests, with a projector, a large screen, and an advanced sound system.

Photo courtesy of the Eldan Hotel

Eldan is a boutique hotel located on King David Street, within walking distance of the Old City and the Western Wall. This makes it the perfect location for all kinds of events, especially a Bar Mitzvah celebrated in an upscale style. Eldan Hotel specializes in organizing Bar and Bat Mitzvah events, offering accommodation solutions for a wide variety of guests across the hotel’s 75 rooms.

The hotel's proximity to the Old City makes it especially convenient for Bar Mitzvah celebrations, including a ceremonial procession to the Western Wall. A synagogue is located nearby, giving families and hosts plenty of options for creating a festive and meaningful event. Even if you are just beginning to plan your celebration, you can contact the staff for a consultation and early booking. The team is at your service for anything you may need, from complimentary Bar Mitzvah content to themed staff costumes, everything to make your special day truly memorable.

 
Photo: Alegra Hotel 

Looking to host the whole family in a perfect luxurious hotel before or after the ceremony? Alegra Boutique Hotel is located in the picturesque Ein Karem neighborhood offering a family-friendly hosting experience with a variety of rooms and suites in one of Jerusalem's most beautiful locations. Hotel Alegra is perfect for families that prefer rural accommodation and are looking to enjoy some peace and quiet, far from the city noise. The hotel hosts private events of up to 80 guests and kosher catering services can be ordered through a third party. You could also use the hotel's staff to help you book the Ein Karem synagogue.

Photo by Leonardo Plaza Hotel

The Leonardo Plaza Hotel, part of the Fattal chain, is located next to Mamilla Boulevard and Jaffa Gate, making it an ideal venue for Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations. The spacious hotel is perfect for accommodating entire families, and its close proximity to the Western Wall makes it a top choice for the occasion. The hotel offers a strictly kosher culinary experience and a variety of amenities to enhance your stay, along with several event options:

• Six versatile spaces, including restaurants, event halls, and a balcony, suitable for up to 800 guests
• A beautiful terrace with panoramic views of Jerusalem
• State-of-the-art audio-visual equipment meeting the highest standards

Address: Harav Avida 1, Jerusalem

The Celebratory Meal

The Museum of Tolerance in the heart of Jerusalem is the perfect venue to host your Bar Mitzvah celebration! The museum is located just a few minutes walk from Mamilla Boulevard and the Old City, near the best hotels, and offers a large parking lot for guests and a wide range of halls to meet any requirement.

The most recommended hall for Bar and Bat Mitzvah events is the Grand Hall of the Museum of Tolerance. The Grand Hall can accommodate up to 370 guests seated around tables. It can be divided into sections and includes options for a stage, podium, sound system, and high-quality large screens. The Grand Hall is adjacent to a synagogue that houses a Torah scroll and a Beit Midrash, making the museum a sought-after destination for ali'ya la'torah ceremonies. Moreover, the Grand Hall is located next to a kosher kitchen, where all the food for the event is prepared.
 

Baraka

Baraka Hall and Restaurant is located near Mamilla and invites you to celebrate a Bar Mitzvah in a hall designed for up to 250 guests, offering a festive and authentic atmosphere. Baraka's warm and welcoming staff will make you feel at home and ensure your Bar Mitzvah becomes an unforgettable experience for all guests, especially the Bar Mitzvah boy himself. The charm of the Old City makes this venue ideal for Bar Mitzvah celebrations. The restaurant features a kosher menu under the supervision of Rabbi Mahfud, offering a variety of Moroccan-Oriental delicacies that add flavor and color to any occasion. In addition, sound equipment and a range of lighting options are available, and there is ample parking near the hall.

Photo courtesy of Baraka

Kinor Bakikar

After the ceremony, it is customary to enjoy a celebratory breakfast or lunch, depending on the time the ceremony is held. The meal is shared with family and friends attending this special occasion. You have several great options to choose from.

Photo courtesy of Music Square Complex

If you're looking for a restaurant near the Old City and not far from the Western Wall, there is no place more fitting than Kinor Bakikar. Located in the picturesque Nahalat Shiv’a neighborhood, inside an old building that is part of the Music Square complex, this venue radiates authentic Jerusalem charm. Kinor Bakikar is a kosher restaurant with a dedicated space that can host up to 120 guests, making it perfect for Bar or Bat Mitzvah dinners. Built from classic Jerusalem Stone and designed with warmth and elegance, the restaurant creates an atmosphere that evokes the spirit of Old Jerusalem. Combined with carefully crafted food and a dedicated staff, it is a perfect choice for your family’s celebration.

Zappa

Photo: Zappa Jerusalem

Housed in a historic building dating back to 1937, Zappa Jerusalem is one of Israel's most distinguished concert halls and event venues. The beautifully designed space can accommodate up to 350 guests, making it ideal for a medium to large Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration. Zappa offers high-end kosher catering by Chef Ori Ziso, who specializes in bold flavors, aromatic dishes, and creative presentation. As a musical venue at its core, one of the highlights is the option to include intimate live performances, adding a truly unique and memorable element to your event.

Lechem Basar (Meat & Eat)

Photo: Lechem Basar (Meat & Eat) Restaurant

Located at The First Station and within walking distance of the Old City, Lechem Basar is one of Jerusalem’s top choices for meat lovers. In addition to its convenient location, the venue can accommodate up to 100 guests in a refined and luxurious setting. The menu presents a delicious and imaginative fusion of juicy meats and freshly baked homemade bread. The restaurant also features a private VIP room designed for 35 guests, a special business lunch menu offering excellent value, and a kosher lemehadrin event menu tailored to your specific preferences and requirements.

More restaurants for events in Jerusalem >>

When planning an event overseas, cost concerns can always creep in. Luckily, Liza Even-Israel of Events by Liza has some great advice on how to save money by either avoiding Israel's Value Added Tax or getting a tax refund on certain purchases. "Many tourists are unaware of the various opportunities for VAT-free or VAT-reimbursed purchases available when planning their events," Liza says. "Since VAT in Israel is 17 percent, this can result in significant savings. "First, it is important to know that if you are staying at a hotel and holding your event at the same hotel, you will not pay VAT for any of your non-Israeli guests staying there. "Furthermore, if you are purchasing certain goods for your event in Israel and you are not an Israeli citizen, you may also be eligible for a VAT refund at the airport. "For example, I coordinated a wedding for a couple from the States. They wanted an Israeli-made Ketubah from a particular artist. The artist provided a special VAT refund receipt, which they presented at the airport and were reimbursed for the VAT."

If you're going through the effort of organizing a beautiful celebration, you'll definitely want to capture the memories with photos that do it justice. Unfortunately, history is full of amazing events with disappointing photos, so it’s worth carefully choosing your photographer. Barak Aharon of Barak Photography is a well-known Israeli photographer whose work has appeared in numerous publications. He shares some helpful advice:

Finding the Right Photographer

"Naturally, not every Bar or Bat Mitzvah is the same. Locations, guests, and circumstances vary widely," Barak says. "However, if you’ve looked at a photographer’s portfolio and the photos seem like something you would want to hang on your wall, that’s a good match. "Also, remember that your photographer will be present on a very personal and important day in your life. Don’t hesitate to call and speak with them to get to know the person who will be documenting your celebration. "It’s equally important to read reviews about your potential photographer. Are they prompt and prepared? Was the work delivered on time? What was it like to welcome this person into a family event? "A transparent business will usually provide reviews through third-party platforms like Google, TrustPilot, or others."

The Challenges

"For people coming from abroad, planning an event in another country can be stressful," he adds. "Thankfully, there are plenty of virtual resources available to clients no matter where they are. "The website is your first stop. It is a window into the business, and any reputable photographer knows it can make or break a deal. Make sure there is an English version of the site. If not, that is a red flag. "Pay attention to how quickly and clearly your inquiry is answered. And most importantly, have a conversation to get a feel for the photographer’s experience with Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. Ask about the flow of a typical event and don’t hesitate to request suggestions for local vendors, parties, or even accommodation based on past work."

Celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in Jerusalem is incredibly meaningful on its own, but guided tours of Jerusalem and Israel can add an even deeper layer to the experience. Take this opportunity to explore the City of David, Tower of David Museum, Jerusalem Archaeological Park, and the recently reopened Hurva Synagogue.

In addition to being fun and educational, touring has the potential to "plant the seeds of personal development, self-growth, and responsibility in a young teenager," says Jerusalem-based tour guide David Sussman. He recommends hiring a "highly qualified guide" for such a meaningful occasion.

"The guide should be passionate, funny, and engaging for both kids and adults. If they have served in the Israeli army, that is a bonus, as it provides insight into Israeli society and culture."

For something truly unique, consider Smart Tour’s Classic Old City EZ Raider Tour. This special experience allows you to kick off your celebration with a fun and adventurous activity that will also broaden your horizons. Ride an EZ Raider all the way to the Western Wall for an unforgettable journey.

Another inspiring experience worth adding to your itinerary is a visit to The Rabbi Kook House. This historic site serves as a museum and is ideal for families seeking meaningful content and engaging activities. During your visit, you’ll tour the home of Rabbi Kook, view authentic historical items, and learn about his extraordinary life. You can also enjoy guided tours, participate in workshops, and watch an educational film. Want to take it a step further? The museum also offers classes, seminars, cultural events, and walking tours around the city.

If you'd like to explore more on your own, check out our full list of tours in Jerusalem and across Israel.

Photo: Alex Yampolsky

One of the most meaningful elements of any Bar Mitzvah (and for some Bat Mitzvahs) is the donning of tefillin. Jerusalem is home to Oter Israel, one of the world’s most highly regarded producers of tefillin that meet all standards of Jewish tradition. In addition to offering tefillin for purchase, Oter Israel provides guided tours of their factory. Visitors can observe the entire process—from inscription to assembly—and learn about the care and craftsmanship involved in creating these sacred items. This deeper understanding greatly enriches the experience of wearing tefillin for the first time as a Jewish adult.

Read more about Oter Israel >>

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