As Tisha B’Av approaches—the day on which we mourn the destruction of both the First and Second Temples—The Western Wall Heritage Foundation is, as every year, preparing to receive the many who flock to the Western Wall, the remnant of the Temple, to read the Book of Eicha (Lamentations) and recite Kinot (elegies) near the site of the destruction.
From Saturday night, the eve of Tisha B’Av 5785 (August 2, 2025), and throughout the following day until late at night, Jews of all backgrounds and traditions will arrive to mark this national day of mourning at the site that most symbolizes the destruction. Thousands will sit on the ground, lamenting the loss of the House of G-d in every tradition and liturgy, as befits this place that unites and binds us all.
On Saturday night, Tisha B’Av Eve, August 2, 2025, The Western Wall Heritage Foundation will hold a public reading of the Book of Eicha and the recitation of Kinot, broadcast live on the Foundation’s website and social media channels for those who cannot attend in person, beginning at 10:00 PM.
Direct link to the live broadcast:
The main event is expected the following day, Sunday, at 7:00 PM, before the fast concludes. The people of Israel will unite at the Western Wall Plaza for a prayer for unity on this day of national soul-searching over baseless hatred. Prayers will also be said for the return of the hostages and for the safety and healing of IDF soldiers and the wounded, with the participation of the Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, rabbis and public figures, hostage families, and bereaved families.
This will be in addition to the moving scene that takes place every year in the evening, just before the end of the fast, when thousands of Jews from across the spectrum come together in a powerful display of comfort and hope. The prayer and singing will be broadcast live on the Western Wall Heritage Foundation’s website and in dozens of locations across Israel and the world.
Live stream link starting at 6:30 PM:
In keeping with tradition, and in order to distribute refreshments in a respectful, organized, and safe manner, individual kits with drinks and light refreshments will be handed out at the Western Wall Plaza to the thousands breaking the fast at the site.
Special preparations by the Foundation will continue late into the night, as large crowds led by rabbis and Torah scholars arrive for the public Kiddush Levanah (sanctification of the new moon) ceremony on Saturday night, following Tisha B’Av.
Please note:
Private vehicles will not be allowed into the Old City. Access is by public transportation only.
The Western Wall Heritage Foundation asks the public to follow the instructions of the Israel Police and on-site ushers.
With prayers that we may soon merit to witness the rebuilding of the Temple in all its glory.
