A summer tradition in Jerusalem: at the end of July, when the weather in this ancient city built over seven hills is cooler and drier than in the rest of Israel, people come from all over the country to watch some of the films that will be in everybody's conversations for months to come.

Jerusalem has been hosting the 10-day Jerusalem International Film Festival every summer since 1983. Over the course of 10 days, the best of Israeli and world cinema is featured and there are prestigious competitions, premieres of the most important Israeli films of the year, tributes to well-known film figures and live musical performances. The festival also hosts the elite of the local film industry alongside the newest talents, with offers of professional panels and workshops.

The festival traditionally opens at Sultan’s Pool, a valley rich in history just outside the Old City walls and adjacent to the renowned Jerusalem Cinematheque. Most screenings take place at the Cinematheque with some at several other venues around the city. The festival’s primary goal is to present its audience with the current trends in world cinema.