Purim Carnival offers plethora of fun

Congregation Beth Ohr congregants from Merrick and Bellmore celebrated the start of the Purim holiday with a fun-filled carnival at the synagogue’s Merrick Annex on March 8.

The festival of Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia. Jews observe Purim by reading the Megillah, giving money or donating food to the poor and celebrating with a feast. It is customary for children and adults to dress in costumes, and make and eat three-cornered pastries called hamantaschen.

Children and families of all ages enjoyed classic carnival games, bouncy rides, face painting, a photo booth and a caricaturist. After scoring big at the carnival booths, guests cashed in their winnings at the prize table. Attendees also enjoyed a spread of bagels and schmear.

— Alyssa Seidman