Purim is right around the corner, and celebratory events are taking place across the region. Beginning Monday, March 9 at sundown through Tuesday, March 10, Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, recounted in the Book of Esther.
Often observed with costumes, noisemakers and parties, Purim is a joyous time in the Jewish faith. Here, find five ways to celebrate the holiday in Northern Virginia and DC.
Queens, Crowns and Masks: A Night of Purim and Modern Ritual
Saturday, March 7, 5-7 p.m.
Join Rabbi Samantha Frank of Modern Ritual and Rabbi Eliana Fischel for an alternative Purim event. They’ll teach about important women in the Purim tradition, and the group will create artwork around the stories of these women. Then, everyone will join together in Havdalah and enjoy drinks, snacks and hamentash. // Washington Hebrew Congregation: 3935 Macomb St. NW, Washington, DC; $12-$15
The Roaring 2020s: A Purim Celebration
Monday, March 9, 7 p.m.
Hear the Megillah and enjoy an irreverent, satirical spin on the traditional Purim story at this celebration. Following the spiel, there will be an after-party with a live DJ, dancing, drinks and desserts. Costumes, especially those with 1920s flapper vibes, are encouraged. // Sixth & I: 600 I St. NW, Washington, DC; $12-$20
Trouble in Shushan City – A Music Man Purim Spiel
Monday, March 9, 7-10 p.m.
The Rodef Players, plus 76 trombones and 110 coronets, will perform Trouble in Shushan City, a musical about what happens when King Haroldverosh decides his new Think method can turn citizens into a marching band. The event’s Megillah reading will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the musical spiel at 7:30 p.m. and the Purim Palooza at 8:30 p.m. // Temple Rodef Shalom: 2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church; free
Purim in New York
Tuesday, March 10, 7:45-9 p.m.
Hosted by Chabad Lubavitch of Northern Virginia, Purim in New York will transport you to New York City with food you can “only get in the Lower East Side;” a mechanical skateboard set in Central Park; the chance to draw graffiti in Brooklyn; street performers in Times Square; and photo ops with the Statue of Liberty in Ellis Island. Dress in your best Purim costume for your chance to win prizes. // Stacy C Sherwood Community Center: 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax; $10-$25
Unmasking Esther – Rosh Chodesh Women’s Circle
Monday, March 16, 7:30-9 p.m.
This women’s group’s monthly meeting will focus on diving deep into the story of Esther, recounting her bravery and courage. Plus, after the discussion, the group will create their own masks using a variety of craft materials. // Temple Rodef Shalom: 2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church; free
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