It is hard to walk around Israel and not realize that Sukkot has arrived.  Many families will build a sukkah outside their homes and because the price of land is extremely expensive in Israel and people live very close to one another, its a sukkah extravagenza.  Some families will eat once in their sukkah, others will eat every meal.  In a crowded area, you will most likely find at least one meal going on.

Like on Pesach, Israeli schools, both religious and secular, take their fall break over Sukkot.  During Chol Hamoed, there are concerts galore around the country.  Because the entire week is off, many families reunite from different cities to celebrate together in whatever way they observe.  As always, the beaches are packed during the week, since its a popular vacation day. 

Simchat Torah, which falls on the last day of Sukkot, is also a very joyous occaision.  Torah scrolls from all around are danced around with in synagogues, on the streets, and in popular hangout areas.  Outside of Purim, Israelis consider this day one of the most exciting days of the year.

Being one of the Shalosh Regalim, the three pilgrimage holidays, Jerusalem in particular receives lots of new guests.  Many of the most expensive apartments in the city are owned by Americans and Europeans who live outside of Israel, and will travel during the Shalosh Regalim and selected other times.  These apartment buildings which are normally dark, light up during the holiday.

Moadim L'simcha!
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Ron Shapiro
2009 USY Israel Affairs VP
israel@usy.org