Timna Festival Returns to Yemenite Roots in Rosh HaAyin for Sukkot

The Timna Festival is returning to its roots this year, placing the heritage, culture, and music of Yemenite Jewry at the center of attention. Taking place in Rosh HaAyin—a city whose historical and cultural story is deeply intertwined with the Yemenite community that helped found it—the festival will be held during Sukkot, from Tuesday to Thursday, September 29 to October 1. Operating under the banner "From Yemen to Rosh HaAyin," the event marks the 78th anniversary of the city's establishment.

A Return to Cultural Roots

Over the years, the festival expanded from a strict focus on Yemenite heritage into a broader celebration of Mediterranean music. This year, the Rosh HaAyin Municipality chose to return to the roots and bring piyyutim, poetry, storytelling, traditional food, and customs to the forefront, alongside their connection to Israeli culture and their profound impact on Hebrew and Mediterranean song. The central event, "From Yemen to the Mediterranean Sea," will take place on October 1 at 20:00 on the main stage.

The original production will present a musical journey from Yemenite Jewish singing to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean music in Israel, combining live orchestras, drumming, Yemenite dance, and traditional liturgical poems.

Diverse Venues and Special Tributes

The cultural hall will host a special musical evening on September 30 dedicated to the story of Yemenite Jewry in Hebrew song, exploring how the Yemenite narrative became an inseparable part of the Israeli soundtrack. Meanwhile, the Yemenite Jewish Heritage Center will feature original productions honoring legendary figures such as Shoshana Damari and the late singer and piyyut master Shalom Sabri. Additionally, the Lev HaIr Park will host the traditional Diwan tent, offering exhibitions, authentic cuisine, and live performances by young artists connecting heritage to the next generation of creators.