Jerusalem is preparing for one of its most colorful annual events, as the city gets ready to host its major parade and street celebration in early March. The festive procession is scheduled to take place on March 4, 2026, between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m., along Rupin Boulevard in the Museum Quarter, offering visitors a large-scale cultural experience in the heart of Jerusalem.
The parade is part of the city’s Purim celebrations. Purim is a Jewish holiday marked by costumes, street festivities and public gatherings, commemorating an ancient story of survival and unity. In Jerusalem, celebrations traditionally continue for an extra day, turning the city into a national destination for holiday events.
This year’s parade will be held under the theme “World of Fairy Tales” and will feature around 30 original artistic projects, presented to the public for the first time. Giant puppets, live orchestras, dance performances and creative installations will fill the streets, while nearby park areas will host food stalls, art workshops and family activities.
Why Was the Museum Quarter Chosen as the Main Venue in Jerusalem?
City officials say the move to the Museum Quarter was designed to create a more open, accessible and secure space for thousands of participants. The area allows for better crowd management and connects major cultural institutions with public green spaces, creating a natural setting for large-scale celebrations and community events.
Which Giant Displays Are Expected to Lead the Parade in Jerusalem?
Among the highlights will be massive figures inspired by classic stories, including Gulliver, Pinocchio, the Pied Piper and Superman. Visitors can also expect unique creations such as an ocean wizard rising over eight meters high, a Trojan horse distributing surprises, colorful techno trolls and camel inspired sculptures. A mysterious leading display, paying tribute to an iconic character, is expected to be revealed closer to the event.
How Does the Parade Fit into Jerusalem’s Seasonal Celebrations?
The parade is part of Jerusalem’s wider seasonal festival program. Following the procession, visitors are expected to continue to street parties in the Mahane Yehuda market area and along Nissim Bachar Street. Several hotels in the city are also offering special discounts and late check out options for guests attending the celebrations.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion said: “Jerusalem continues to strengthen its position as a leading cultural and artistic center, reflecting the unique diversity of its communities. In preparing for this parade, residents, artists and cultural institutions have worked together to create a joyful and unifying event. This celebration expresses the true spirit of Jerusalem: creative, open and connected. I invite people from across Israel to join us and experience a festival that goes beyond anything we have known before.”
The event is produced by the Jerusalem Municipality, Train Theater and Ariel Company, in cooperation with local schools, artists and community groups. Organizers say the 2026 parade is expected to deliver not only impressive visuals, but also a deep cultural experience that reflects Jerusalem’s vibrant and diverse character.
