JACOB’S LADDER FOLK FESTIVAL – Israel for Tourists

The Jacob’s Ladder Folk Festival was founded in 1976 by Menachem and Yehudit Vinegrad and a few other folks who immigrated from the UK. Menachem & Yehudit still produce the festival which is held twice-yearly, in spring and in winter. It is listed as one to the 300 best festivals in the world. Jacob’s Ladder is a unique musical and social event for lovers of all genres of music; and includes folk, bluegrass, world, Irish, country rock, blues and renaissance music. The festival’s distinctive style attracts thousands of attendees every year. The performers are from Israel and abroad.
Held near Kibbutz Ginosar on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, this annual international festival traditionally takes place each May and December and is an event for the entire family.
The Spring Weekend, the larger of the two festivals kicks off on the Thursday afternoon and winds up on Saturday at around 17:00.Patrons usually arrive early on the Thursday in order to enjoy the lake and the swimming pool . Throughout the festival they can enjoy a marathon of concerts and activities on a variety of stages with jam sessions of all types in every possible corner. .
Onsite rooms are available at the Nof Ginosar Hotel, but these tend to be snatched up a full year ahead.. There is also a wide choice of B&B accommodations in the area. However, most of the people who attend the festival prefer to pitch tents on the luscious lawns surrounding the hotel. There are ongoing performances and activities for all the family on six different stages or activity centers. Food can be purchased in the hotel lobby, or from the various concession stands on the grounds.

Festival ticket sales begin in March and include entrance to all concerts, sessions, dance and music workshops, story tent, yoga, tai chi, swimming, crafts fair, parking, and free camping. The majority of the activities and the Main Stage concerts are held outside. Patrons are advised to bring blankets or low chairs for outdoor activities. A full schedule of the activities is available in April.
The Winter Weekend Festival, held for the first time in 2004, is more intimate. It considered a cozy hotel weekend, with great live music performances that are held inside the Nof Ginosar Hotel. The Winter Weekend includes concerts, sessions, singing, dancing, a variety of workshops, children’s activities, and a crafts fair. A full schedule is available in October.