Excitement for Purim has been building all month long — and so has our list of places to experience the celebration as a community.
Purim is celebrated with the reading of the Megillah; exchanging mishloach manot, or shalach manos; partaking in a festive meal, giving tzedakah and attending costume parties.
Now that social gatherings have returned, many celebrations are returning to their full glory after a multiyear hiatus, though some organizations still have masking requirements in place.
This year’s returning celebrations will be something to remember with new, unique ways to commemorate Esther’s bravery and experience Purim like never before.
March 5
Purim Carnival: A Free Family Event
Join the Jewish Museum of Maryland and Hinenu: The Baltimore Justice Shtiebl for a youth-led Purim carnival from noon to 3 p.m. This free event includes carnival games, Purim skits and lots of dancing. Costumes are, of course, encouraged. Food and drinks will not be served at the event. While the event is free, capacity at the museum is limited. The event will be held in the orientation space of the museum at 15 Lloyd St. in Baltimore. Register to attend at jewishmuseummd.org/events/purim-carnival-a-free-family-event.
March 5
Shalach Manos packing
Lend a hand to the Jewish Uniformed Service Association of Maryland by being a part of its new initiative, the Veteran Circle of Friends, and making shalach manos ahead of Purim. Shalach manos packing will take place at 3 p.m. at the JUSA House at 2314 Sugarcone Road. In addition to this packing event, you can help bring Purim to local veterans by sponsoring shalach manos packages, delivering them or nominating a veteran to receive one. This shalach manos project is the Veteran Circle of Friends’ first project and is happening in partnership with Jewish War Veterans Post 196. The VCF will continue to host projects throughout the year in support of local veterans. More information about JUSA can be found at jewishusamd.org.
March 6
The Magical World of Chizuk Amuno – Purim 2023
Get ready for a festive lineup of Purim celebrations with Chizuk Amuno Congregation & Schools. The festivities start at 6:15 p.m. and last until 9 p.m. Activities include Minchah/Ma’ariv/Classic Megillah reading, a community Megillah reading, a family-friendly after-party, a teens-only after-party and an adults-only event. There will be music, dancing, face painting, entertainment and more. The parties will be held at 8100 Stevenson Road in Pikesville. These events are free to attend but registration should be completed online at chizukamuno.org.
March 6
B’nai Israel Young Adults Purim Party
Celebrate Purim with BIYA’s Wild West-themed party. Ticket prices include dinner and an open bar. The party will be from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at 27 Lloyd St. in Baltimore. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online at jewishdowntown.org/event/purim5783. For more information contact [email protected].
Prices: $36 regular ticket, $40 for paying at the door
March 6
Noir & Blanc Purim Party
The young and Jewish of Baltimore (20s and 30s) are invited to The Outpost for a black and white Purim party featuring a Megillah reading, mishloach manot exchange, a sushi bar, l’chaims and entertainment. Pick your black and white costume with care for a chance at the costume contest’s grand prize. The party will take place at 7 p.m. at 1032 Riverside Ave. in Baltimore. Purchase tickets online at chabadsobo.com/event-details/purimparty23.
Prices: $25 1 person, $20 friend ticket
March 7
International Purim
Celebrate the holiday in a unique way, with a Purim tour around the world. Join Chabad of White Marsh for an exciting celebration commemorating the saving of the Jews. Attendees are invited to arrive in their finest international costumes to taste food and drinks from around the world. Other fun features include listening to a fast Megillah reading, prizes for best-dressed child/teens/adults, a carnival with activities and trivia. The event will start at 5 p.m. at 117 Queensberry Road in Rosedale. Reserve your spot online at jewishwhitemarsh.org/purim.
Prices: $36, $100 event sponsor, $360 corporate sponsor ■
