View Our Resources Below for Celebrating Purim with Children!
MAKE, SHARE, AND ENJOY PURIM TREATS
Whether it's hamantaschen, an Eastern European Jewish tradition, Iraqi Purim cookies, or Cheesy Greek Triangles, there are delicious Purim recipes from around the world to make for yourselves and for family and friends.
GET CREATIVE
Make masks and crowns using glitter, feathers, metallic paper, plastic “gems,” etc. Create your own gragger, or noisemaker, by decorating an empty container or a folded paper plate and filling it with dried beans.
HEAR THE STORY, MAKE SOME NOISE!
On Purim, it’s traditional to hear the story of Queen Esther, also called the Megillah (scroll). It may be read aloud or acted out in a humorous skit called a Purim shpiel (story). Everyone listens, graggers (Purim noisemakers) in hand, ready to “drown out” the name of the mean Haman.
DANCE AND SING!
Let's dance, celebrate, and sing along to fun Purim songs, and honor Queen Esther, whose courage and spirit saved our people.
MAKE YOUR OWN SHPIEL (PURIM SKIT)
Act out all, or part, of the Purim story, being silly in whatever ways you enjoy. Make up a rap! Try "paper bag dramatics" by putting several random objects in a bag, and then using them as props to act out scenes from the story. Guaranteed to be a fun time!
DRESS UP
Jews have traditionally celebrated Purim by dressing up as characters in the Purim story. Today, both children and adults extend the tradition by creating and wearing all sorts of costumes, masks, face paint, crowns, and more.
GIVE GIFTS OF FOOD
The custom is to give foods such as hamantaschen (Purim cookies), other sweets, fruits, and nuts to friends and family. This tradition is called “mishloach manot” meaning “sending gifts.” Decorate paper plates, use baskets, or other simple containers, put in the treats, and add a Happy Purim note if you’d like. This can be a great activity to do with children, and it’s fun to deliver them in person.
FOOD FOR THOSE WHO ARE HUNGRY
An important part of every Jewish holiday is tzedakah (giving to create greater justice). On Purim, since it’s a holiday of eating and sharing yummy foods, it’s traditional to give food, such as to a food bank, or to contribute to an organization that helps to feed those in need.
CELEBRATE WITH THE JEWISH GATEWAYS COMMUNITY!
From hamantaschen parties to a Purim Playdate and family-friendly Community Shabbat, there are a variety of Purim events for families with children with Jewish Gateways. All are welcome, and no experience is necessary.
