Have you read the book of Esther in the Bible? If not, you’re missing out! Along with being an exciting story, featuring a beautiful heroine as well as an evil villain, plotting against God’s people. Themes of God’s faithfulness as well as the deliverance of His people are evident in this story of deception and salvation, a story where the good guys win!
The holiday of Purim celebrates these themes and remembers the story from the book of Esther. It’s celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew calendar month of Adar. For the corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar, check my Calendar.
Tell the Story
There’s no substitute for the actual book of Esther in the Bible! It’s a relatively short book – only 10 chapters – so dive right in! A scroll containing the book of Esther is called the Megillah of Esther and it’s traditionally read in synagogues during Purim.
There are also many books containing this story. Here are a few to choose from.
The Story of Esther: A Purim Tale
The Book of Esther by David H. Stern
Bible Pathway Adventures Esther Activity Book
Dress Up
Dressing up as Esther is pretty much irresistible for little girls! Boys can be King Ahasuerus (Xerxes), Mordecai, or even the evil Haman! There are other characters in the story to dress up as also. And dressing up isn’t just for kids! Adults can get in on the fun as well!
Some costumes we’ve used:
Child’s Biblical Times Burgundy Wiseman Costume
Biblical Times Blue Wiseman Child Costume
Watch the Movie
And your kids will love this VeggieTales version of the story: Esther: The Girl Who Became Queen
Have a Feast!
While having a feast is customary, what you serve is up to you! Here are two traditional dessert options.
Hamentaschen are the classic Purim treat. There’s a bit of a learning curve to making them though. This page from Tori Avey will help you get it right!
While the name is less than appetizing, this is a delicious recipe that you can even make ahead of time!
Make Crafts
Make crowns out of these Paper Plate Party Hats
It’s customary to give gifts on Purim and these Mishloach Manot Baskets are also a fun craft to do with the kids!
What are you planning for Purim? Share in the comments!
I’ve always thought it would be so much fun for the women to throw a huge Persian feast for the men and say “some of you will return for a second feast and others will be hung on the gallows!” 😆 All kidding aside, we also observe a day of fasting before the feasting. This year it begins at dawn on or about February 25th. Thank you for the great ideas, HRM!
I love your sense of humor, Amara! And fasting the day before is a great addition to the observation of Purim just as Esther, her maidens, and the Jewish people did. Thanks for your comment!