For those of you who don’t know, Ramat Gan is a neighbor of the city of Tel Aviv and sometimes also tries to compete with it, this time they succeeded in winning big. This 2023, the festival of light took place on April 3, 2023, and lasted for about 10 days. The festival was held in the well-maintained and beautiful national park of Ramat Gan. You must be wondering what can be seen and if it is worth coming.
A bit about the lighting at the festival
The concept of this festival of light is galaxies, so right at the entrance you will get that feeling, the tops of the trees were illuminated using special projectors in shades of blue and purple that put you right into a mysterious atmosphere.
After passing the main gate, you can see the display of the giant sabion flowers that were placed above the lake. Later you will pass by the all-seeing eye and then you will come to the jellyfish in a space that floats above the lake and this is just the beginning….
Continue walking around the lake and then you will reach the area of sculpted flowers and floating lilies (the flower exhibition), after that, you will see two giant displays, the baby on which you can protect your face on it and hands of love, at this stage you will already notice from a distance an incomprehensible movement of light on the giant eucalyptus trees, these are a flock of illuminated birds who arrived for the first time at the lighting festival (huge spectacular display).
Well, there is much more to see and enjoy with all the family and friends and I will share more photos and videos from the festival here
The festival dates – when is the festival of lights
This 2023, the festival started on 4-3-23 and ended on 4-15-23. Here are the other details from this year’s mesmerizing festival of lights:
– On Sunday-Thursday the flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-23:00, light exhibition, hours: 18:00-23:00
– Fridays the flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-16:00
– Saturdays the flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-24:00, light exhibition, hours: 18:30-24:00
– 5.4 Seder eve, the flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-16:00
– 6.4 End of the holiday Flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-23:00, Light exhibition, hours: 18:30-23:00
– 11.4 Monday evening flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-16:00
– 12.4 Holiday Monday, the flower exhibition, hours: 09:00-23:00, light exhibition, hours: 18:30-23:00
For 2024, organizers are yet to announce specific information such as dates and locations, so it’s always best to stay tuned for the latest updates.
*Starting at 19:00 and every round hour, another light display was activated, embracing the lake, and was synchronized to a soundtrack prepared especially for it.
Where is the festival and how to get there
The festival takes place in the Ramat Gan National Park (Ahad Ha’am Street 1) (Israel) You can arrive by car and park in the 5 parking lots around the park, the organizers of the light festival anticipate that over 300,000 people will arrive, therefore it is possible that the existing parking lots will not be enough and therefore it is recommended to arrive by public transportation, for example with route 140 of the Dan company
If you liked this festival, you might want to check out these wonderful lights festivals as well:
How much does it cost???
So those who don’t know the park will think that the entrance costs a lot of money… but no!! Entrance to the festival and the flower exhibition is completely free!!
What do you pay for?
- Parking if you are not a resident of the area
- Food and drink in food trucks
That’s it, now there are no excuses, let’s enjoy the beauty!
The weather during the lights festival
During the festival, the weather should be very pleasant and on some of the days it will even rain since it is likely that you will arrive in the evening so the weather is already cooler and you should be equipped with a top or a light jacket. It is recommended to check the forecast on the day you arrive.
The Festival Displays
Did I mention light displays? Here are some details about the lights displays and their talented creators for the 2023 Ramat-Gan Festival of Lights:
Together!
Let’s start with one of the most impressive and large displays at the festival, 2 enormous hands (about 12 meters high) that together form the shape of a heart.
The work was created during the corona epidemic in the United States (Scottsdale Hospital) when the residents of the city wanted to express gratitude and support to the medical teams during the epidemic.
On the display that impressive itself, they created an amazing and mesmerizing video art that cannot be ignored
The display was created by Merav Eitan and Gaston Zahar
Where to Sleep – Hotels Nearby
- Kfar Maccabiah Hotel & Suites
- Location: Perets Bernstein St 7, Ramat Gan
- Description: Kfar Maccabiah Hotel & Suites is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Ramat Gan. It boasts a vast sports center, multiple swimming pools, and upscale dining options. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both Tel Aviv and Ramat Gan’s business districts.
- Amenities: Spa, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, restaurants, free Wi-Fi, conference facilities.
- Hotel Indigo Tel Aviv – Diamond District
- Location: Aholiav Street No. 5, Ramat Gan
- Description: Situated in the Diamond District of Ramat Gan, this boutique hotel offers modern and stylish accommodations. It’s close to the Ramat Gan business district and a short drive from Tel Aviv’s attractions.
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, business services, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar.
- Rimonim Tower Ramat Gan
- Location: 1 Krinitzi St, Ramat Gan
- Description: This hotel offers comfortable accommodations suitable for both business and leisure travelers. It’s located near the Diamond Exchange District and provides easy access to various attractions in both Ramat Gan and Tel Aviv.
- Amenities: Kitchenette in rooms, conference facilities, laundry service, Wi-Fi.
What to Eat
Marinado
- Location: Jabotinsky St 7, Ramat Gan
- Description: Marinado offers a menu based on high-quality meats prepared in various methods, from smoking to grilling. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and a unique blend of seasonings for its dishes.
- Dishes Served: Steaks, burgers, smoked meats, salads, and a range of side dishes.
La Lasagna
- Location: Zalman Shneur St 6, Ramat Gan
- Description: If you’re in the mood for some hearty Italian fare, La Lasagna is the place to be. This cozy restaurant offers a range of classic Italian dishes with a focus on, as the name suggests, various types of lasagna.
- Dishes Served: Different varieties of lasagna, pasta dishes, salads, and Italian desserts.
Taizu
- Location: Menachem Begin 23, Tel Aviv-Yafo
- Description: Taizu is a critically acclaimed restaurant in Tel Aviv that offers Southeast Asian cuisine inspired by street food markets. The ambiance is upscale and stylish, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
- Dishes Served: Dim sum, seafood dishes, satays, and a variety of other dishes inspired by the flavors of Asia, particularly from countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.
More Things To Do In The Area
- Ramat Gan Safari (Safari Ramat Gan)
- Location: Bnei Zion
- Description: Also known as the Zoological Center of Tel Aviv-Ramat Gan, this is the largest collection of wildlife in human care in the Middle East. The “African Park” and the zoo provide a home to 1,600 animals of different species, amongst them 68 species of mammals, 130 species of fowl, and 25 species of reptiles.
- The Diamond Exchange District
- Location: Derech Begin, Ramat Gan
- Description: A globally significant and renowned diamond district, this area is packed with high-rise buildings, trading halls, banks, and gemological laboratories. It’s the perfect place to witness the hustle and bustle of Israel’s diamond trade.
- National Park Ramat Gan (Park Leumi Ramat Gan)
- Location: Between the city’s urban center and the Yarkon River
- Description: A vast urban park, perfect for picnics, bike rides, or leisurely strolls. The park is home to a small lake, a man-made waterfall, and several sculptures, providing plenty of picturesque spots.
FAQ
- Where can I park my car during the festival?
- Answer: There are designated parking areas around the Ramat Gan National Park. However, due to the festival’s popularity, parking spots fill up quickly. We recommend using public transportation or arriving early to secure a spot.
- Is smoking allowed in the park during the festival?
- Answer: No, for the safety and comfort of all guests, smoking is prohibited in the festival area.
- Can I bring my pet to the festival?
- Answer: Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be on a leash at all times. Please be considerate of other guests and clean up after your pet.
- Are there food and beverage stalls at the festival?
- Answer: Yes, there are several food and beverage stalls throughout the park, offering a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
- Is there a special area for children or family activities?
- Answer: Absolutely! The festival features a dedicated area for children with interactive light displays and family-friendly activities.
- Can I bring my own food and drinks?
- Answer: Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, we request that you dispose of trash responsibly in the provided bins.
- Are there any accommodations for persons with disabilities?
- Answer: Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated parking spaces for persons with disabilities. If you require any special accommodations, please contact the festival organizers in advance.
- In case of emergency, are there medical facilities on site?
- Answer: Yes, there is a first aid station on-site, and trained medical personnel are available to assist with any emergencies.
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