Tiptoeing into Fun

It seems that every time we feel like we can exhale, the news leaves us breathless once again. Though we may want to escape to another country for a bit, where to go? This may be the year that we enjoy time off in our own country. Fewer tourists this year means that traffic snarls may be less intense. Below are some ideas that I hope will allow you to enjoy the upcoming chagim.

Please remember to always check for cancellation policies and Pikud HaOref (The Homefront Command) for up-to-date travel restrictions. Also, don’t forget to check your local municipality web site. It often posts fun activities close to home!

Volunteer Activities

Pantry Packers – great for groups or families.  A project of Chabad, help pack food packages in their Jerusalem logistics center – pantrypackers.org

Leket – Israel’s largest food rescue organization. Come sort fruits and vegetables in their Raanana logistics center. Leket also has an option to match you with a farmer who needs help in the fields. https://www.leket.org/en/

Swords of Iron Facebook Page – This is a great resource for those looking for volunteer opportunities on a particular day just before or once they arrive in Israel.

Parks

Farm in the Valley – Located just below the Jerusalem Cinemateque, you can enjoy the waterfall and learn about ancient agricultural crafts. The farm will be holding special activities for the whole family during Chol HaMoed. Combine this with a unique walk on the adjoining Jerusalem Pedestrian Hanging Bridge for a great afternoon. Please check the website for activity details. Please note that this site is not wheelchair accessible. https://cityofdavid.org.il/en/sites/farm-in-guy-eng.

The Vickar Observation Deck at the Mishmar HaSharon Reservoir. This KKL-JNF site is free and had picnic tables making it a great spot for a fun family afternoon. The lake is full of pelicans and other water fall as the birds stop here on their way south as part of their autumn migration. Please drive slowly and carefully over the unfenced bridge over the Alexander Stream.

Less well known than nearby Beit Guvrin, Tel Lachish National Park was recently renovated and offers spectacular views of the Hebron Hills to the east and the surrounding Judean lowlands. Tel Lachish played an impressive role in Jewish history, especially during the time when the First Temple stood. And, for those of you who are fascinated by art created to clarify historical events, the chairs at the top are truly impressive. Most, though not all, of this site is wheelchair accessible.

Appolonia National Park – located in Herzliyah, many people have not visited this national gem. The park was upgraded a few years ago and now sports paved walking paths making it perfect for family outings. Children will love exploring the Roman and Crusader remains and adults will love the spectacular views of the Mediterranean. There are picnic tables and bathrooms, so it’s an easy outing. When you leave, you’re only five minutes from the Herzliyah beaches so you can enjoy a full day out without a lot of running around.  The Acadia beach in Herzliyah has an elevator for easy beach access for everyone.

And, although it’s a classic, I want to remind everyone that since the holidays are late this year, it’s a perfect time to hike at the Ein Prat Nature Reserve in the Judean Desert.  Just remember to get there early as this park is such a popular destination during the Sukkot holidays.

This year has been challenging for all of us, and we should grab the opportunity to spend time with friends and family. I hope that these suggestions will allow you to share some special activities with those closest to you. This is THE year to explore the beauty in our own backyard. Next week, I will be providing information about workshops as well as updates on restaurants and other holiday attractions.

Wishing all of you a year of peace and blessings.