Families gathered at Congregation Beth Tikvah in Wantagh on March 1 to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim with costumes, music and festive activities.
The celebration began with the reading of the Book of Esther, a traditional part of the holiday, with many participants dressed in costume. Afterward, the synagogue hosted a Purim Ball where Hebrew School students, adults and guests enjoyed live music from the CBT Band.
The event featured singing and dancing, face painting for children, holiday food, raffles and prizes. Young participants also performed a children’s Purim play during the celebration.
The gathering brought together synagogue members, families and community guests of all ages.
Purim commemorates events described in the Book of Esther, in which the Jewish people were saved from a plot against them in ancient Persia. The name Purim means “lots,” referring to the casting of lots in the biblical story.
The holiday celebrates Jewish survival and is traditionally marked with festive gatherings, costumes and charitable giving.
