Jerusalem is heading into one of its busiest and most colorful weeks of the year. Sukkot is expected to bring hundreds of thousands of worshippers, families, travelers and tourists from Israel and abroad to the capital, filling the Old City alleys, the Western Wall area, public parks and major tourist attractions across Jerusalem.
But anyone planning a visit to Jerusalem during Sukkot 2026 should keep one important detail in mind: near the Old City and the Western Wall, a private car may become more of a burden than a convenience. Extensive road closures are planned, while public transportation will be reinforced and large numbers of police officers and Border Police personnel will be deployed throughout the city.
When Will the Priestly Blessing Take Place at the Western Wall During Sukkot 2026?
One of the main events of the holiday period will be the traditional Priestly Blessing at the Western Wall. This year, the ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, September 28, and Thursday, October 1.
The event is expected to draw particularly large crowds, prompting an expanded security and traffic operation around the Western Wall and Jerusalem’s Old City.
Jerusalem District Police said preparations have been underway for weeks. Hundreds of police officers, Border Police personnel and volunteers will be deployed on major routes, around holy sites, in parks and at key tourist locations, with both visible and undercover activity.
Jerusalem District Police said: “We invite the public to come to Jerusalem, be moved, travel and enjoy the holiday events safely,” while urging visitors to use public transportation and follow police instructions on the ground.
Which Roads Will Be Closed in Jerusalem During Sukkot?
Beginning Sunday, September 27, and continuing throughout the intermediate days of Sukkot until Friday, roads leading toward the Western Wall and the Old City will be closed to private vehicles.
The closures include Sultan Suleiman Street, Rockefeller Junction, Gethsemane Junction, Ofel Road and Ma’ale HaShalom. Access will be permitted only to public transportation and local residents.
Depending on traffic conditions, Yitzhak Kariv Street and Hativat Yerushalayim Street may also be closed intermittently. Residents of the Jewish Quarter will be able to reach their homes through Jaffa Gate or Zion Gate, subject to the traffic arrangements in effect.
What Is the Best Way to Reach the Western Wall and Jerusalem Old City During Sukkot?
For anyone planning a Sukkot trip to Jerusalem, the recommendation is straightforward: leave the private car outside the Old City area whenever possible.
Public transportation to the Western Wall is expected to operate around the clock during the intermediate days of the holiday, helping accommodate the large number of visitors and worshippers.
Between a walk through the Old City, a visit to the Western Wall and family activities across Jerusalem, planning the journey in advance could save considerable time. During Sukkot, the easiest way into historic Jerusalem may be the one that does not involve driving.
