Purim is a Jewish holiday linked to the story of Queen Esther. Who was she? Why do we dress up and what are the traditions?
This year, the celebration of Purim takes place on Tuesday March 3, 2026. During this Jewish holiday, it is customary to prepare various cakes which we offer to those around us, we also organize a copious meal called the “Purim feast” and young and old dress up. The faithful go to the synagogue to listen to the reading of the Megillah, which tells the story of Queen Esther. But who was she exactly?
Who was Queen Esther and where did Esther’s fast come from?
In the 4th century BC, at the time of the Persian Empire, this woman of Jewish faith was chosen as a wife by the King Ahasuerus, during a beauty contest. The latter had killed his wife Vashti, who had disobeyed him. Without revealing its origin, Esther then became queenwhile Haman is appointed prime minister of the Empire. But the latter demands from the king the extermination of the Jewish people, following the refusal of Mordechai (Esther’s cousin and leader of the Jews), to prostrate himself before him. A decree was even published to implement his decision. Faced with this threat, Mordechai then convinces his people to repent and fast for a whole day. Meanwhile, Esther organizes a feast, where she invites the king and Haman, hoping to be listened to. She then reveals to them that she is Jewish and reveals the plot organized by Haman against his people. He is finally hanged and Esther and her family celebrate this turnaround as a miracle. This is the reason why practitioners fast each year, the day before the feast of Purim (this year, the fast of Esther takes place on Monday March 2, 2026).
Purim cakes: what are the culinary specialties?
On the occasion of the festival of Purim and according to customs and traditions, various cakes: with white icingof the Montecaosof the cigars and makrouds with honey or dates, shortbread with strawberry jam and icing sugar, almond crunchiescoconut balls, without forgetting the cakes called “ears of Aman”. You can also prepare crescent moons, sesame pancakesor even gazelle horns. All oriental pastries are welcome, all in a pretty basket, a pretty box, which we offer to family and loved ones.
What are the traditions during the holiday of Purim?
Here are the traditions of the Purim festival, a very festive celebration, for young and old:
- Listen to the Megillah. Every year it is customary tolisten to the reading of the book of Esther (called the Megillah of Esther) to remember the story of Purim.
- Donations to the poor. According to tradition, it is also customary to donate to needy peopleto those in need (at least two people).
- A Purim feast. This feast also refers to the feast Esther threw with the king. Also, a hearty meal is organized with the family (notably to break Esther’s fast which takes place during the day).
- The Michloah Manot. On Purim, it is customary to give cakes as gifts to loved ones, family or friends, this is what we call “Michloah Manot”.
- Purim costumes. Children and even adults dress up for the Purim festival.
Why do we dress up on Purim?
Still referring to the story of Purim, it is customary to disguise yourselfbecause Queen Esther had to hide her own identity to protect herself and her people. And even if the story of Purim seems somewhat difficult to approach for little ones, this holiday has become over the years and through the generations, a very festive celebration. All costumes are welcome, first and foremost of course, parents and children opt for disguises of Queen Esther, with a beautiful dress, and a royal toilet, a crown… Or a king’s costume for the boys. Why not opt for a Frozen or Disney princess costume? Costumes of cowboys, animals, superheroes, firefighters or police officers, clowns and cartoon characters are popular every year with young and old alike. Parents also do not hesitate to create their children’s costumes and apply makeup, a bit like Mardi Gras or Carnival.
What is the meaning of Purim?
In ancient Persian,The term “For” refers to chance, to fate. Indeed, the decree that Haman applied to annihilate the people of Esther was fixed randomly, on the 13th day of the twelfth month, i.e. the month of Adar. Purim is therefore also called “the festival of Sorts”.
Finally, if you want to wish those around you a happy Purim holiday, it is appropriate to say “Purim Sameah” or “Hag Sameah”.
