Purim 2017 in Jerusalem
Then…
The story of Purim told in the Book of Esther, which is traditionally read twice on Purim – once on the eve of Purim and once on the day of Purim – tells of King Ahasuerus who was convinced by his assistant Haman to destroy all the Jewish people in his kingdom. His new queen, Esther, and her cousin and/or husband Mordechai, collaborated to turn the fate of the Jewish people around, succeeding without one mention of God in the entire 10-chapter book.
And now…
“They tried to kill us. We won. Let’s eat.” That is the theme of many of the Jewish holidays, and Purim is no exception, except in this case we also drink alcohol, give charity to needy people and give gifts of food to friends.
On Purim, in order to celebrate the complete turn-around of the Jews’ lot (in Hebrew pur – hence the name Purim) and of the hidden face of God in the story, we dress up in costumes and drink alcohol which both help us see the world from a different point of view.
In Jerusalem there are plenty of festivals and parties, some for families and children, some for those who want to go all out with their drinking, dressing up and dancing until they can no longer tell the difference between Haman (the bad guy in the story) and Mordechai (the good guy).
2017 events will be updated soon
Things to do in Jerusalem with children over Purim
There are plenty of Purim events, some free, some not, that are perfect for children and families. Many of the main museums in Jerusalem offer special activities for Purim.
Purim at Safra Square
This is the central Purim festival of the Jerusalem Municipality. It is a huge party that takes place in the municipality’s Safra Square, in between the Old City and from the city center. This colorful carnival includes Israeli television stars and beloved characters from fantasies and movies. The event includes a costume competition with prizes, a stage with an array of performances including puppet theater, clowns, a circus, creative workshops and more.
Where: Safra Square, the Jerusalem Municipality
When: March 25, 2016 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Cost: Free
Purim the First Station
Three days of Purim festivities, including family fun during the day, Megillah reading and parties at night!
Where: The First Station, 4 David Remez Street, Jerusalem
When: March 23-25, 2016 at 10:00 am
Cost: Free
Upside Down: Purim for the Whole Family
Art workshops, theater performances a circus and more!
Where: The Israel Museum, 11 Derech Ruppin, Jerusalem
When: March 24, 2016 from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm
Cost: Varies by activity/performance
The Race for Purim
Race from the Museum of Italian Jewish Art to the Tower of David Museum and conquer the various challenges along the way — event in Hebrew.
Where: Museum of Italian Jewish Art, 25 Hillel St, Jerusalem; The Tower of David Museum, Jaffa Gate
When: March 24, 2016 at 2:00 pm
Cost: 25 NIS
Tickets: Buy now!
Inclusive Megilla Reading
Where: Yedidya , 12 Nachum Lifshitz Street Jerusalem
When: March 24, 2016 at 7:00 pm
Cost: Free
Purim parties in Jerusalem
There are plenty of parties to choose from for your Purim in Jerusalem. If you already celebrated Purim the day prior outside of Jerusalem, you may be partied-out but those of us committed to celebrating in Jerusalem will be fresh and ready to go… So, here you go!
Purim Goes Woodstock
Pretty much what it sounds like… Dust off your hippie gear and rock out to the rock and blues sounds of the 1960’s!
Where: Even Juke, 33 Jaffa Street, Jerusalem
When: March 24, 2016 at 8:00 pm
Cost: 20 NIS
Nahlaot Street Party
Where: Nisim Bachar Street, Jerusalem
When: March 25, 2016 at 10:00 am
Cost: Free
Abraham Hostel Purim party
Costumes, contests, music, dancing, face-painting and, of course, drinking at Jerusalem’s #1 hostel
Where: Abraham Hostel, 67 Hanvi’im Street, Jerusalem
When: March 23, 2016 at 8:30 pm
Cost: 20 NIS
Tickets: Buy now!
Down the Rabbit Hole Purim Party
All your favorite Alice in Wonderland characters will be there for colorful cocktails, a special menu and costume contest with awesome prizes.
Where: Mirror Bar, Mamilla Hotel, 11 King Solomon Street, Jerusalem
When: March 23, 2016 at 9:00 pm
Reservations: 02-548-2230
Purim Rave
Where: Tower of David Museum, Jaffa Gate
When: March 24, 2016 at 10:30 pm
Cost: 60 NIS
Tickets: Buy now!
Boogie Purim
An all-night party featuring live music in 3 dance halls, including a set by Jerusalem ensemble Marsh Dondurma, a variety of DJ’s, an open mic session, costume contest and much more.
Where: Gerard Behar Center, 11 Bezalel Street
When: March 24, 2016 at 8:00 pm
Cost: 40-50 NIS
More information: 052-860-8084, boogie97@netvision.net.il
Purim Olam Haba
One of the city’s most exciting annual parties.
Where: Kedma Roof, Mamilla
When: March 24, 2016 at 9:00 pm
Cost: 75-95 NIS
Tickets: Buy now!
When is Purim in Jerusalem?
The Hebrew date of Purim is the 14th of the month of Adar, starting the evening before. But! In Jerusalem and other “walled” cities, the holiday is celebrated one day after everyone else.