Israel, December 19, 2025 – Following the end of the war, the easing of travel warnings, and the resumption of flight connections, Israel anticipates the arrival of approximately 130,000 tourists in December, including around 40,000 Christian pilgrims who will celebrate Christmas at the country's holy sites.

To ensure an unforgettable festive experience for its guests, the Israeli Ministry of Tourism has made extensive preparations. In Nazareth, the center of Christmas celebrations, the Ministry invested over 600,000 Shekels (approximately 160,000 Euros) in infrastructure and festive decorations – including light installations and fireworks. An additional 250,000 Shekels (approximately 66,500 Euros) were allocated for promoting the Christmas events.

Celebrations, Encounters, and Exchange during Christmas Season
The traditional processions through Nazareth are considered the highlight of the celebrations, captivating both international pilgrims and local visitors for many years. In addition, the Ministry, in cooperation with the Company for the Development of Acre‘s Old City and Nazareth, is organizing an atmospheric Christmas market in the historic courtyard of the Knights' Halls in Akko.

The Ministry of Tourism's continuous commitment is also evident in its close exchange with the country's Christian communities. In the run-up to the Christmas holidays, Michael Izhakov, Director-General, together with Rakefet Levy, Deputy Director-General of Tourism Experience, and other representatives, visited high-ranking church leaders and dignitaries of the Christian communities to convey holiday greetings and present symbolic gifts.

Christmas in Israel offers Christian travelers the unique opportunity to spend the holidays at the authentic sites of biblical history. The combination of spiritual significance, festive atmosphere, and the country's warm hospitality makes the Christmas season in Israel a special experience.

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About the Israel Government Tourist Office in Germany:

Whether it's round trips, city breaks, bathing, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours, or family holidays: The Israel Government Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Israel is located in the Eastern Mediterranean and is no more than a four-hour flight from most parts of Europe. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, and a captivating contrast between ancient and modern. In Israel, visitors are welcomed with traditional hospitality that dates back to biblical times. goisrael.com

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