Summer in the Shuk

In the Machane Yehudah Market, The Shuk,

the piles of fresh garlic of spring,

have been replaced by the piles of summer fruit.

The old and narrow Jerusalem streets in the area are often crowded,

but on Monday nights in July, the crowds

have come for the Balabasta Cultural Festival.

As the sun sets the celebration begins.

Numerous musical performances,

live bands,

soloists

and groups,

 all performed in the alleyways and corners of The Shuk.

Games were available

and many performers entertained the crowds for free,

but this mime had a sign requesting a coin to start his dance moves.

Artists painted in many locations,

adding more color,

to the market event.

Well known for its fresh food,

there were actually some people who were in The Shuk to do their shopping.

If you could get close to the displays,

there were bargains.

The Balabasta Festival has grown from last year.

Five years ago The Shuk was empty, a scary and dark place at night,

now it is filled with people and roses.

0 thoughts on “Summer in the Shuk

  • July 19, 2011 at 4:00 pm
    Permalink

    There’s more than just food in the shuk, but I’m still hungry.
    צום קל

    Reply
  • July 20, 2011 at 12:30 pm
    Permalink

    How refreshing on a fast day (which is rather slow on a hot day) to see lovely fruit and vegetables grown in Eretz Yisrael . Hmmm, I think I will make roasted veggies for the break-fast with yummy onion and cheese omelets and fresh galic bread. What am I doing? I am salivating all over the keyboard and it is just 3pm – 5.3 hours to go. My tummy is saying ‘shut up, go take a nap’! Love the pictures of Balabusta day – I had not heard of it. Is this every year? Is it just in Machane Yehudah or does it spill over into the neighborhoods nearby? How fun and joyous! Easy fast and stay cool…

    Reply
    • July 20, 2011 at 5:41 pm
      Permalink

      We published pictures of Machane Yehuda last year when they had entertainment on Monday nights in the summer.
      The name Balabasta Festival and the event are MUCH bigger this year.
      Looks like a winner by the size of the crowd and so it will be an annual event.

      Reply

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