Joy, costumes, a little chaos—and a whole lot of connection.

Purim is one of the most joyful and spirited holidays on the Jewish calendar. In celebration of courage, hidden identity, and dramatic turnarounds, Purim is our excuse to dress up, laugh loudly, gather with friends, and show up for each other.

Whether you’re hosting a megillah (Book of Esther) reading, organizing a costume party for alumni families, or planning a laid-back happy hour with hamantaschen (triangular, filled pocket cookies) and mocktails, Purim is the perfect excuse to bring your HMI community back together.

To help spark the fun, HMI will reimburse up to $10 per alumni in attendance to help you host your Purim gathering—whether that goes toward snacks, drinks, decorations, crafts for kids, or mishloach manot (gift bags) to share.

Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

🎭 Costume Party + Megillah Moments
Invite alumni to come in costume (kids and grownups alike!) and read selected excerpts from the megillah (the Book of Esther) together. No Hebrew skills required—just enthusiasm.

🍪 Hamantaschen Bake-Off or Dessert Swap
Ask everyone to bring their favorite hamantaschen flavor (traditional or totally unexpected). Vote for “Most Creative,” “Most Nostalgic,” or “Kids’ Favorite.”

🎁 Mishloach Manot Exchange
Set up a simple gift exchange where alumni swap festive treats or small goodies—embracing Purim’s tradition of giving to one another.

🥂 Purim Happy Hour
Lean into the joy of the holiday with themed cocktails or mocktails, light bites, and space to reconnect, laugh, and celebrate resilience together.

However you celebrate, Purim is about showing up in community—finding lightness in hard moments and remembering the power we hold when we gather.

Once you’ve hosted your Purim party, send us a photo or short video—we’d love to see your costumes, your creativity, and the joy you’re bringing to your local HMI community this year!

More Resources

Looking for ideas, inspiration, or a quick refresher on Purim traditions? We’ve gathered a few resources to help you plan a celebration that feels meaningful, fun, and accessible for everyone.

• HMI Blog: Purim
  Our guide to the themes, traditions, and modern meaning of Purim — including how courage, hidden identity, and joy show up in today’s world.

• My Jewish Learning: Purim 101t
  A clear, approachable overview of the holiday story, traditions, and customs — great for first-time hosts or interfaith guests.

• My Jewish Learning: How to Make Hamantaschen
  Step-by-step instructions and filling ideas (classic and creative). Perfect for a bake-off or dessert swap.

• PJ Library: Purim Activities for Families
  Kid-friendly crafts, games, and storytelling ideas to help bring the holiday to life.

• Union for Reform Judaism: Purim Ideas & Megillah Resources
  Printable readings, celebration ideas, and accessible ways to engage with the story of Esther.

Whether you’re hosting something big or keeping it simple, Purim is about gathering, laughing, and remembering that even in uncertain times, community makes joy possible.