🎭 Purim Countdown
March 23, 2027
About Purim
Purim is one of the most joyous and festive holidays in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the salvation of the Jewish people from a genocidal plot in ancient Persia, as told in the Book of Esther (the Megillah). The villain Haman, advisor to King Ahasuerus (Xerxes), planned to destroy all the Jews of the Persian Empire. Through the courage of Queen Esther — who concealed her Jewish identity until a critical moment — and the wisdom of her uncle Mordecai, the plot was foiled and the Jewish community was saved. The holiday is observed on the 14th of Adar in the Hebrew calendar, typically falling in February or March.
Purim Traditions
Purim is celebrated with four central mitzvot (commandments): reading the Megillah (the Book of Esther) aloud, sending gifts of food to friends and neighbors (mishloach manot), giving charity to the poor (matanot l'evyonim), and enjoying a festive meal. The holiday also features costumes — dressing up is one of the most distinctive Purim customs, symbolizing the hidden miracles of the story and Esther's concealed identity. Triangular pastries called hamantashen (or oznei Haman) are the traditional food, named for Haman. Purim is one of the few Jewish holidays not associated with Shabbat-like restrictions — it is a day of eating, drinking, and merrymaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Purim each year?
Purim falls on the 14th of Adar in the Hebrew calendar, which typically falls in February or March in the Gregorian calendar. In Jewish leap years, an extra month of Adar is added, and Purim is observed in the second Adar.
Why do people wear costumes on Purim?
Wearing costumes on Purim symbolizes the hidden miracles of the Purim story and the hidden identity of Queen Esther. It is also a tradition of joy and festivity.