Western wall
Bar Mitzvah
Bar Mitzvah FAQ
Does one need to reserve the date for the Kotel ceremony in advance? How long before the date does one need to reserve it? How is it done?

Bar Mitzvah FAQ

Does one need to reserve the date for the Kotel ceremony in advance? How long before the date does one need to reserve it? How is it done?

Is there a limit to the number of people we can invite to attend our Bar Mitzvah celebration at the Kotel?

What happens when we arrive at the Western Wall? Where do we meet the guide?

Can we photograph and video at the Western Wall?

In what languages can the ceremony be conducted?

Who runs the ceremony? What qualifications does he have?

Can we incorporate personal greetings and comments into the ceremony?

What do you suggest that we do before or after the ceremony? What tours or activities do you suggest?

What other services do you offer for the celebrating families?

What souvenir does the Bar Mitzvah boy get after the ceremony?

What do we need to bring with us for the ceremony?

What is the procedure for bringing a Torah scroll to the Kotel?

Do you also give Bar Mitzvah preparatory lessons?

Is it customary to give a tip to the guide or a donation to the Foundation?

What happens if it rains on the day of the ceremony?

Where is the closest parking area?

Can we bring refreshments to the ceremony? What food is recommended to serve and where is the service area? Where is the food left during the ceremony?

How long does the ceremony last? Does the ceremony always start on time or could there be delays?

How does one reserve a date to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah? Is there a specific date on which it should be celebrated?

On which days and at what hours can the ceremony be held at the Western Wall?

Does one need to reserve the date for the Kotel ceremony in advance? How long before the date does one need to reserve it? How is it done?

Q: Does one need to reserve the date for the Kotel ceremony in advance? How long before the date does one need to reserve it? How is it done?

A: Holding a Bar Mitzvah ceremony at the Kotel requires advance reservation with the Western Wall Heritage Foundation in order to reserve a guide who will accompany you throughout the ceremony and assist in running it. One can reserve the date from 6 months in advance to as late as one week before the event. The reservation can be made in one of two ways: (1) via the Foundationױs website (link), or (2) by telephone, *5958. In exceptional circumstances, reservations can be made at shorter notice, by telephone only.