Purim

The Megillah, a costume, and a meal that runs long.

Purim is the story in the Book of Esther: a plot to destroy the Jews of the Persian empire, undone by Esther and Mordechai. The scroll is read aloud twice — once at night and once during the day — and drowning out Haman’s name every time it comes up is part of the reading, not an interruption of it.

Four things make the day: hearing the Megillah, sending a gift of food to a friend (mishloach manot), giving to people in need (matanot la’evyonim), and sitting down to a festive meal.

We read the Megillah on Purim eve at the Rabbi’s home, and hold a themed dinner and celebration at Chabad — for adults and children both, costumes encouraged.

Everyone is welcome, whether this is your first Purim or a yearly tradition. This year’s times, theme, and dinner details are posted closer to the date.