If you see people partying on Israeli streets dressed in outrageous costumes this week, be assured it’s not a late Mardi Gras nor a very late Halloween. It’s the Jewish holiday in Israel known as Purim. Purim celebrates events described in the biblical book of Esther, in which Mordechai and his cousin Esther help the Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire triumph over the murderous plot of evil court official Haman.
Purim starts this year on February 28 at sundown and continues through sunset on March 1 — except in Jerusalem, where it’s celebrated from sunset March 1 through sunset March 2.
Celebrating Purim in Israel is a unique experience. Purim is without a doubt the most raucous holiday on the Jewish calendar, thanks to a Talmudic declaration that “A person is obligated to drink on Purim until he does not know the difference between ‘cursed be Haman’ and ‘blessed be Mordechai.'”
Purim fun in Israel — whether that’s parades, carnivals, school events or parties — are happening just about everywhere. People give charity and exchange gifts of food with neighbors for their holiday meals, while others collect food for the needy.
Many Jews gather in synagogues and community centers in the evening and morning to listen to a recitation of the scroll of Esther (Megillah), and everyone gobbles oznei Haman, three-cornered pastries said to resemble Haman’s ears. (Learn how to make your own oznei haman here).
No matter where you go or what you do on Purim, even if you go to work, you wear something to evoke a smile or a giggle.
We hope you enjoy this selection of Purim photos taken in recent years in several Israeli locales. If you’re in Israel this week, grab a mask and join the fun!
Finally, here is a video of Purim costume legend Aviram Carmeli, aka Aladdin, riding a magic carpet on the streets of Tel Aviv on Purim 2016.
