Thu 6 Aug 2009
Hutzot Hayotzer For Kids
Posted by Shebet under Be A Tourist, Fun Food, Just Plain Fun, Pre School, School Age, Shopping, Teenagers
1 Comment
Hutzot Hayotzer, Jerusalem’s International Art Festival
Last night we went to Hutzot Hayotzer and in all honesty my kids were fast asleep at home. That didn’t stop me from looking around with a parent’s eye to see what they would have enjoyed. I have posted some pictures to give you a feel for the event. There is a great atmosphere at the International Art Festival and there are many artists selling children’s toys including puppets, science and discovery toys and children’s clothes.
As you walk in from the top entrance near the actual Artist Colony head straight up the hill (towards the Old City walls) and you will find the special activities for children. The children start at the Treasure Island looking in the sand for a special gold coin with the help of some pirates. Once they have found it they can take it to the fairy at the enchanted forest and she will tell them their fortune. Then they are sent to the witch’s house and can visit the gingerbread house. The entire visit takes around 10 -15 minutes and is enjoyable for younger kids.
The older kids will appreciate the music and dancing on the stage in the Israeli artist area, the caricaturist and tattoo (don’t worry its only Henna) artist. Don’t miss the great food area with booths from local restaurants selling everything from La Boca tortilla sandwiches to Snow Cones and Popcorn.
# 1 Tip: Buy the tickets in advance, if you can, to avoid the long ticket lines especially on Sat night.
Where: Sultans Pool, Artist Colony
When: August 3-15, 2009 Closed on Friday Night
Time:Children’s activities are from 6:30pm-10:00pm
We took our three kids (age 11, 9 and 6) to Chutzot Hayotzer on Thursday. We arrived at 6 and were one of the first people through the gate, so there was no waiting around and lots of freedom to wander before the crowds got there. The kids activities were a hit with my 6 year old, the others joined in too. They all loved the music boxes and the puppet stalls. There was a clown show at 7ish – not very impressive, but they enjoyed it. The food options were great and everyone got to choose their own supper. One big disappointment was that we were expecting to see a glassblower, but he spent all his time stoking his fire and even though we checked 3 times we never saw him blow any glass.
The entrance fee is a bit steep (180 shekel is a family ticket – 2 adults plus 3 or more kids) but we were there for almost 3 hours, yill the little one said her legs were tired! All in all it was a great holiday treat that was nice for all the family.