Purim

Purim literally means ‘lots’ and is sometimes referred to as the Feast of Lots. This holiday commemorates when the Jewish people were saved from persecution by the Persian Empire.

Overall, Purim is a joyous holiday that is much beloved by many families and communities. People celebrate by giving gifts of food and drinks, giving charity to the poor, and reading the Megillah (Megillat Esther or Book of Esther) aloud.

Families and communities also celebrate together with a big feast and lots of wine. Some communities put on a Purim spiel (play), dress up in costumes, and eat hamantaschen (three cornered biscuits) or kreplach (dumplings). Some people also fast the day before Purim.