The "Shukran" Fair marks the opening of the Jewish Agency project to encourage businesses in the old city of Acre.

Many parents and children attending the fair did not lack for things to do, they enjoyed rides and inflated trampolines. The visitors also enjoyed a street theater troupe's re-creation of Napoleon's conquest of Acre.

Police and security forces estimated that about 20,000 visitors arrived at the artists' fair in Acre’s Old City. The organizers hailed the event as a great success and an encouraging sign for future initiatives.

In addition to the throngs who visited the many stands, which included the works of 40 Western Galilee and Acre artisans, thousands visited Acre’s ancient marketplace and the many restaurants the city offers.

The Jewish Agency sponsored this project within the framework of the Partnership 2000 Western Galilee region. Additional fairs will take place in the coming months with the goal of encouraging businesses in Acre’s Old City, businesses that were hurt since the start of the October 2000 violence.

  Sivan 5764 - June 2004