Safed Klezmer Festival: A One-of-a-Kind Musical Event in the Galilee
Taking place in the mystical, hilltop city of Safed, the Safed Klezmer Festival brings a different type of energy to a place known as the birthplace of Kabbalah. The free, 3-day festival is a celebration of Klezmer music, a genre rooted in the traditions, culture, and heritage of Ashkenazi Jews in Eastern Europe.
Launched in 1988, the event features open-air stages throughout the city’s squares, courtyards, and winding alleyways. Safed comes alive with the sounds that define Klezmer; clarinets and violins weave bright melodies, while accordions, bass, brass, and more add depth.
Beyond the music, the family-friendly festival offers a variety of experiences throughout the day. Visitors can take part in daytime workshops, browse the galleries in Safed’s Artists Quarter, or simply get lost in the historic alleys. As the sun sets, performances begin to fill the air, and local cafes stay open late, providing a space for people to relax (or dance) and soak in the vibe. It’s a unique opportunity to experience a centuries-old Jewish musical tradition in one of Israel’s most historic cities.
