Purim holiday & festival
Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday and purim jewish celebration that honors the rescue of the Jewish people from Haman’s plot, as told in the Book of Esther. This purim holiday features lively traditions like street carnival, synagogue readings, costumes, feasting, and gift-giving, making it one of the most fun and meaningful festivals on the Jewish calendar.
Written by Zvika Gasner Koheleth 12-December-2024 (Originally 3-March-2019, Edited 24-February-2021), Photography by Angela Hechtfisch
What is the Purim festival?
Purim, from the Hebrew word “Pur” meaning lottery, is a joyful Jewish holiday that celebrates the rescue of the Jewish people from Haman—the not-so-friendly villain who planned to wipe out all the Jews living in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran). The story ends on a high note: Haman and his sons end up hanging in the city square. Karma, biblical edition.
The story comes from the biblical Book of Esther. Haman, the royal vizier of King Achashverosh, plots to destroy the Jews, but his plan is cleverly overturned by Mordecai and his cousin (and adopted daughter) Esther, who rises to become Queen of Persia. The salvation of the Jewish people turns into a holiday full of happiness, feasting, drinking, dancing, costumes, gift baskets, and sweet treats—especially the famous triangle pastries known as “Haman’s ears.”
To this day, Purim is celebrated by reading the Book of Esther in synagogues. Every time Haman’s name is mentioned, the crowd erupts with noise using traditional noisemakers, instruments, and plenty of enthusiasm. Alongside the religious traditions, modern celebrations include massive costume parties, especially among the more liberal crowd.
Purim in Tel Aviv
And then there’s Tel Aviv. Known as Israel’s cultural and party capital, the city takes Purim very seriously. One of the most legendary events was the 2018 Purim rave at Kikar Hamedina, where around half a million people danced, drank, and celebrated together. In 2019, free-entry adult parties took over spots like Meir Garden near the beach promenade and the famous “Ad-Lo-Ya-Da” costume carnival in Florentin—literally meaning “drink until you don’t know anymore.”
In 2020, celebrations were already toned down, and in 2021 everything was completely canceled. Purim 2022 finally brought back a sense of normality—and “Corona” returned to being just a Mexican beer. Sadly, celebrations in 2023 and 2024 didn’t take place following the events of October 7th. With a quiet prayer that peace is here to stay, 2025 is bringing the joy back, with music, parties, and life slowly filling the streets once again.
When is Purim?
Purim falls in the Hebrew month of Adar, about March time, summed up perfectly by the saying: “When Adar enters, joy increases.” And if there’s one city that knows how to deliver joy, it’s Tel Aviv—with sunny beaches, museums, great food, nonstop nightlife, and plenty of reasons to celebrate.
