World's largest sukkah returning to Jerusalem

(JNS) - The world's largest sukkah is set to open to the public in Jerusalem, with plans for a series of free events, including workshops, plays, musical performances and virtual reality activities, for all ages and sectors.

The "Mayor of Jerusalem's Sukkah" will be erected in Safra Square and be open during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday (Oct. 1-5) from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. It will also be open on Sept. 30 for a few hours after 9 p.m. and on Oct. 6 in the early morning.

The sukkah will cover an area of 800 square meters and have a capacity of 650 people. The work on the sukkah began many weeks before the holiday, with a team of engineers and designers formulating safety measures and choosing decorations.

This year, the sides of the sukkah will be covered with verses about Jerusalem from the Bible as well as spectacular photos of the city.

Events taking place in and around the Israeli capital during the holiday include the Saharna celebrations conducted by the Kurdish Jewish community, the 11th Bethlehem Road Festival, the traditional Birkat Kohanim (Priestly Blessing) at the Western Wall, the Ein Kerem Festival, and Klezmer music performances at Jaffa Gate and in the Jewish Quarter. Additionally, the 68th Jerusalem March will be held on Oct. 4, with tens of thousands of people participating.

The Old City walls and the Chords Bridge will be illuminated with a special blessing for pilgrims, and light poles will be decorated in a festive manner.

At the end of Sukkot, as in previous years, there will be Hakafot events in synagogues across the city's neighborhoods ahead of the Simchat Torah holiday.

"We have invested a lot of thought, attention and resources to bring joy to residents of the city and visitors, enhance the special experience in our capital, and welcome the Sukkot holiday in a festive manner," said the municipality in a statement.