The Best Live Music Venues in Jerusalem
A city known for its historical and religious significance, Jerusalem has evolved into a cultural hub, playing host to thousands of live music performances by local artists and international acts every year.
Jerusalem has gone through a renaissance over the past 10 to 15 years. Live events and music venues are popping up all over the city, providing unique insight into the local art scene and a celebration of the city’s diverse communities. The Holy City, with its historical buildings, provides a rare backdrop to memorable performances by traditional Israeli musicians, symphonic orchestras, rock stars and jazz virtuosi.
Yellow Submarine
Music Venue
Zappa Jerusalem
Music Venue
Zappa is located in a disused 1930s railway warehouse just behind The First Station, the original station on the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv railway line that is now an open-air cultural and art centre. Part of the Zappa Group, a company that promotes and stages live music events and festivals across Israel, including Tel Aviv, Herzliya and Haifa, Zappa Jerusalem hosts regular jazz, rock and pop concerts by local artists, as well as tribute bands, stand-up comedy and private events. The kitchen at the club offers a kosher and vegan-friendly menu. The schedule is updated every week, and opening times might vary.
The First Train Station (Tachana Ha’Rishona)
Music Venue, Shopping Mall
The Jerusalem Theatre
Theatre, Music Venue
Mike's Place
Bar, Israeli, American
A sports bar by nature, Mike’s Place offers musical entertainment from 10pm until midnight. Mondays are Open Mic Night and Tuesdays are for Band Night, an event that showcases musical groups that play rock, acoustic or alternative music. Wednesdays are reserved for ‘Jazzy Jamz’, an evening of free live jazz music. Strategically located in the centre of town on Jaffa Street, Mike’s Place offers plenty of seating over two floors, plus a pool table in the back and a stage in the front.
Sultan's Pool
Archaeological site, Concert Hall, Music Venue
When big stars tour the region and come to Jerusalem, they perform at Sultan’s Pool. The venue is an archaeological site, once an ancient water basin renovated by Suleiman the Magnificent, the Ottoman Sultan who built the Old City of Jerusalem. Sultan’s Pool has become one of the most impressive, unique and beautiful places to enjoy a live show, especially during the summer, but fairs and festivals are also held regularly throughout the year.
This article is an updated version of a story created by Lior Kantor.