Bar Mitzvah in Israel
It’s the Real Deal

Did you know that planning a Bar Mitzvah in Israel can be easier and much less expensive than having it locally? Even easier for a Bat Mitzvah in Israel. More meaningful for sure. I guarantee it!

I can’t wait to tell you how...

My son Aarons' bar mitzvah at a conservative synagogue in Zichron Yaacov, Israel

Sure, you can take the traditional route and have a nice (yawn) ceremony at your local synagogue, followed by a ridiculously expensive themed party with the best DJ in town for 200 or more of your closest friends and family. I have been to my fair share and quite honestly have found them all to be nice, but not especially memorable.

Now, imagine something truly special and unforgettable like celebrating a Bar Mitzvah in Israel. After all, becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a life cycle event in Judaism that marks the transition of a young man or woman into Jewish adulthood. Essentially, it connects the Jewish child to his roots and provides an unbreakable link to what it means to be Jewish. This connection is what gives us our Jewish identity throughout our entire lifetime. So, what could be more fitting than to celebrate this once in a lifetime event by returning to the Jewish homeland?

My son had his Bar Mitzvah in Israel as well as my two daughters. For what many spend here in the States for the party, food, and music, you can take your entire family (the whole Mishpacha) to Israel to visit our ancient Jewish homeland and experience the most meaningful and unforgettable family vacation ever.

For many of you, I am sure the idea of planning such a trip is overwhelming to say the least. Don’t worry, I am going to help you get started.

Prayer podiums used for Bar Mitzvah services at the Kotel

First, start thinking about where. Some of my top venue suggestions for your Bar Mitzvah in Israel:

• Masada Ceremonies on the top of Masada are held in the remains of the Zealots` Synagogue, known to be the oldest synagogue in the world still in use. Services there are conducted by the rabbi of your choice, according to Orthodox, Conservative, Reform or Reconstructionist tradition. Arrangements should be coordinated by your rabbi, travel agent or relative in Israel by contacting Masada National Park: (Tel) 011-972-8-658-4207/8 (Fax) 011-972-8-658-4464 or Arad Tourist Center: (Tel) 011-972-8-695-9333, (fax) 011-972-8-695-5052.


• Kotel or the Western Wall/ Kotel Tunnels - You can choose to combine the service at the kotel with a tour of the kotel tunnels and /or The Generations Center (a permanent exhibition opened near the Western Wall). The Western Wall Heritage Foundation – a non-profit organization http://barmitzva.thekotel.org/en, responsible for the maintenance and renovation of the Kotel has set up, amongst other educational programs, the Bar Mizvah Project. The foundation provides assistance in all aspects of the organization of the bar mizvah at the western wall. The service is free of charge. The volunteers for the Bar Mizvah Project will assist with issues such as organizing a 'minyan', providing a volunteer to assist the bar mitzvah boy with his 'Tefillin' and explanation of the service, providing information regarding rooms to rent for a family party, and even recommendations for restaurants in the area.


• Israel Bar Mitvah Tours - Hire a tour guide operator that specializes in organizing such trips. They will handle everything for you. You can find some really good reputable ones on the Internet.

Masada - an unforgettable location for a bar mitzvah celebration

Top Tips and Recommendations for Bar Mitzvah in Israel:

• When traveling in the hotter summer months, always keep at least 2 liters of water with you at all times.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. There is virtual no dress code in Israel which means comfort is in. (there are a few exceptions in the more conservative areas of Jerusalem)
• It is uncommon for girls to make Aliya Torah in Israel, but some reform congregations will allow this.
• Boys must be 13 years old and girls 12 years old.
• Apply for a special Bar/Bat Mitzvah certificate at least 21 days in advance The Israel Ministry of Tourism will provide for free a beautiful certificate to all Israel Bnai Mitzvot. The certificate includes the celebrant's name in personalized calligraphy, and is signed by both the Minister of Tourism (if you are on a group tour, they will take care of this for you).
• Allow yourself at least 10 days, preferably two weeks minimum. It can take a few days to adjust to the time change.

Best place to eat and shop in Jerusalem - The new Manilla Mall, just near the Jaffa gate, you will have a choice of many good kosher restaurants for a celebratory meal.

To help make your Bar Mitzvah in Israel the most it can be, please allow me to share my knowledge and experience and do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or inquiries. I am delighted to provide for you any assistance.

Please see my Masa Israel and Israel Birthright pages for more exciting Israel programs.

Mazal Tov (Good luck and Congratulations in Hebrew)
Bruce

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Stories in Israel.
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