Purim

Purim History

Purim (Hebrew: פּוּרִים) commemorates the account of the biblical Book of Esther. This particular observance emphasises themes of deliverance and joy as it marks the salvation of the Jewish people from a planned extermination during the ancient Persian Empire. Central aspects to the observance include the reading of the Book of Esther, the sharing of food gifts known as mishloach manot, partaking of a feast (se'udah), giving charity to the less fortunate (matanot la'evyonim), and expressive merriment.

Historically, Purim's narrative traces back to the reign of King Ahasuerus of Persia and involves pivotal figures such as Queen Esther, her uncle Mordecai, and the villainous Haman. For the Jewish community in the United Kingdom, Purim holds a profound resonance as it symbolises the enduring resilience and survival of their cultural identity despite adversities. During a time when antisemitism was rampant, the history of Purim served as a reminder of the Jewish people's capacity to persist and thrive against tumultuous odds.

In the United Kingdom, Purim is observed with the same traditional customs practiced worldwide by Jewish communities. The scroll of Esther, the Megillah, is read in synagogues while attendees shake noise-makers called graggers to drown out the name of Haman whenever it's mentioned. It is also common for individuals, particularly children, to dress in costumes aligned with the figures from the Book of Esther, attending feasts and exchanging care packages (mishloach manot). Purim normally takes place in late February or early March, depending on the Hebrew calendar. It begins at sundown on the 13th day of Adar and concludes at nightfall on the 14th, offering a day filled with joyous celebration. Date shown reflects the main observance day. This observance begins at sundown on the day before.

Top 9 Facts for 2026 Purim in the UK

• One of the most engaging ways to experience the historical context of the festival is by attending the Purim & Persia Tour at the British Museum, which allows visitors to explore ancient artefacts from the court of King Ahasuerus.
• A central and noisy tradition involves the use of a gragger, a handheld rattle used by the congregation to drown out the name of the villain, Haman, whenever it is read aloud from the Megillah.
• Culinary interest often centres on the preparation of hamantaschen, which are distinctive three-cornered pastries typically filled with poppy seeds, chocolate, or fruit preserves to represent the triangular hat or ears of the story's antagonist.
• The observance includes a specific charitable obligation known as matanot la'evyonim, which requires individuals to give gifts to at least two people in need on the day of the festival to ensure everyone can afford a celebratory meal.
• Many communities across the country host a Purim spiel, a humorous and often satirical theatrical production or parody that retells the events found in the Book of Esther.
• The festive atmosphere is highlighted by the custom of wearing elaborate fancy dress or masquerade costumes, a practice that alludes to the "hidden" nature of the miracles described in the biblical text.
• Households often participate in the exchange of mishloach manot, which are carefully curated gift baskets containing at least two different types of ready-to-eat food and drink sent to friends and neighbours.
• A significant social highlight is the se'udat Purim, a grand afternoon feast where it is traditional to enjoy wine and a lavish multi-course meal in a spirit of frivolity and joy.
• For those interested in the culinary arts, events such as An Italian Purim provide an opportunity to learn how different Jewish diaspora cultures, such as those from Italy, have adapted traditional festive recipes over the centuries.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Purim

Top things to do in the UK for Purim

• Make a Mishloach Manot (also known as mishloach manos or shalach manos). This is a gift of at least two kinds of food that are ready to eat. Give them out to neighbors, friends and associates.
• Make Hamantaschen cookies. These are pocket triangle shaped cookies that are often made with fruit, poppy seed or cheese filling.
• Attend the Purim Spiel: Purim Spiels are theatrical presentations that tell the story of Purim in a fun and entertaining way. Synagogues and Jewish community centers across the UK host these plays, perfect for the whole family.
• Read a book to learn more about Purim in United Kingdom:
  Jewish London: A Comprehensive Guidebook for Visitors and Londoners - by Rachel Kolsky and Roslyn Rawson: Provides a look into the Jewish culture and how holidays like Purim are celebrated in the United Kingdom's capital.
  Jewish Living: A Guide to Contemporary Reform Practice - by Mark Washofsky: This book gives a detailed overview of Jewish practices.

Purim references