The holiday season is around the corner, and from the looks of what Jerusalem has planned, shofars won't be the only ones having a blast. From last-minute Rosh Hashana prep to massive concerts and special food deals, you'll be forgiven for not getting in everything the city has to offer.
- One of Israel's hottest musicians over the past few years has been Avraham Tal, first as the frontman for Shotei Hanevuah and now as a solo artist. The one-man hit machine takes on the Old Train Station Thursday night with his new show Orot ("Lights"). The show comes in advance of the new Goldstar Zappa Jerusalem pub's grand opening.
- Rosh Hashana is only a few days away. Don't risk being the shlub with only half-eaten chocolates to bring to a holiday host. Head to Malcha Mall for a gift fair, which is sure to include a perfect something for a perfect someone.
- Sure you know all the Dudaim's biggest hits, but have you heard them rearranged and performed by the likes of Daniel Zamir, Israel Gurion and Asaf Amdurski? Of course not, but Sunday at Beit Avi Chai you have your chance, the last in this year's Endless Music series of revisited artists.
- Monday is your last chance to head to the American Colony Hotel and yodel for some Swiss food, as the Jerusalem insititution prepared food just like they eat in the Alps, courtesy of chefs flown in from the Mont Cervin Palace Hotel. The menu for the week includes a special business lunch as well as an a la carte evening menu.
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Numerologically equivalent to the Hebrew word for "life," 18 is an auspicious number in Jerusalem, even for animals. The Biblical Zoo will be turning 18 this week, and to celebrate, the animals are putting on a birthday party that won't soon be forgotten, complete with fire and light, on Tuesday. While many believe that fireworks can be traumatic for animals, orangutans are skeptical.
Also on Tuesday, popular Israeli singer Eyal Golan hits the stage at Sultan's Pool, with his romantic new show, Helek Me-hayai (Part of My Life). The soccer-loving Middle Eastern-style popper was recently named Israel's most broadcasted artist of the year by a Media Forest group study.
- Wednesday marks Rosh Hashana, the Jewish new year. The city mostly shuts down in deference at night, but for those looking for a place to dip apples in some honey, there's no better venue than the Inbal hotel, which is preparing a massive Rosh Hashana feast to ring in 5772, with dishes fusing tradition and innovation. The hotel is now accepting meal reservations from non-guests as well. Lamb medallion duet in red wine and rosemary sauce? Roasted leg of lamb with mushroom risotto sautéed in white wine and fennel? Yes please.
And check out our full events section for everything else happening around town.
