Purim 2027: the festival of Esther
Purim is the most joyful festival in the Jewish calendar. The Book of Esther is read aloud, people dress up, make as much noise as possible whenever Haman’s name is mentioned, exchange baskets of treats and gather for a great feast. Purim falls in the middle of Adar, in late winter or early spring, a month before Passover, and is celebrated a day later in Jerusalem. Here are the dates of Purim, the story it tells, its four main customs and the pastries that go with it.
When is Purim in 2027?
2027
From the evening of Monday 22 March until nightfall on Tuesday, 23 March 2027
in 135 days
2028
From the evening of Saturday 11 March until nightfall on Sunday, 12 March 2028
Every holiday begins at sunset the evening before and ends at nightfall; dates shown are those observed outside Israel, with Israel’s dates noted where they differ.
The story and meaning of Purim
Purim tells the story found in the Book of Esther. In the Persian empire of King Ahasuerus, the minister Haman secures a decree to destroy the Jews of the kingdom on a date chosen by lot, which gives the festival its name: “Purim” means lots. Queen Esther, who had hidden her origins, and her cousin Mordecai manage to foil the plot, and the danger turns back on Haman. Strikingly, God’s name never appears in the text; tradition sees in it a deliverance hidden behind the course of events. That is one reason people wear disguises, and why the festival blends laughter, gratitude and the idea that everything can be turned upside down. It is preceded by the Fast of Esther.
Purim traditions
Four customs define Purim. First, reading the Megillah, the scroll of Esther, in the evening and again in the morning; at every mention of Haman, young and old spin graggers and stamp their feet. Second, mishloach manot: sending at least one person a parcel of at least two ready-to-eat foods, often cakes, dried fruit or drinks. Third, matanot la’evyonim, gifts to the poor, so that everyone can celebrate. Fourth, the seudat Purim, a lively afternoon feast where wine has its place. Costumes, eagerly awaited by children and plenty of adults, transform streets and synagogues, and in Israel parades fill the cities. In cities walled since ancient times, such as Jerusalem, the festival is held the following day, known as Shushan Purim.
Purim pastries
The signature Ashkenazi Purim pastry is the hamantasch, or Haman’s ear: a triangular cookie filled with poppy seed, jam or chocolate. Sephardic families make their own Haman’s ears, fried dough glazed with honey, as well as pastries with almonds, dates or marzipan depending on the region. For the feast, every family brings out its festive dishes, and mishloach manot baskets are a great excuse to share family recipes.
Purim as a couple
Purim is the perfect festival for meeting people: you go out, dress up, laugh, and go from door to door delivering baskets. Putting together mishloach manot, choosing matching costumes or heading to a community party all make for easy memories. For singles, Purim parties organised by communities and Jewish organisations are often one of the best occasions of the year to meet new people in a relaxed atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
Why do people dress up on Purim?
Costumes reflect a story where nothing is as it seems: Esther hides her identity, fortunes are reversed, and God’s hand stays hidden. It is also, quite simply, a way of joining in the joy of the day.
What is mishloach manot?
It is a gift of food: at least two different ready-to-eat items, given to at least one person on Purim day. Many people prepare them for neighbours, friends and colleagues.
Why is Purim celebrated a day later in Jerusalem?
In the story, the Jews of Shushan, the capital, celebrated their victory one day after everyone else. Cities walled since the time of Joshua, Jerusalem above all, therefore celebrate Shushan Purim the following day.
Is Purim a day off?
No, Purim is not a day of rest like Shabbat or the major festivals, so work is permitted. But people make time to hear the Megillah, deliver their baskets and join the feast.
Could your next match start on Purim?
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