Mem Global | Your favorite Purim program

By Evan Richter, Program Specialist MHWOW

Out of the lengthy list of Jewish Holidays, Purim has always been my favorite. When I was a kid, I would go to our annual synagogue Purim Party dressed up as something evident like Mordechai or something more absurd like a lightbulb (I have a very crafty mother). But, as I got older, I began to appreciate Purim for the sheer freedom it gave us in its celebration.

Yes, you must retell the story (or megillah as it is formally called), but how you retell it is entirely up to you. Since entering adulthood, I have hosted an improv competition where each group had to retell the story creatively; I put together a virtual Purim party mystery experience through an interactive videogame-based website called Gather, and now, I am a part of a full-blown immersive Purim party extravaganza at a local drag bar in Chicago.

You do not need to create a full-blown production to make Purim something special, but you should think about how to infuse creativity into your Purim celebration. Rather than just having hamantaschen you could have a flavor competition and have your guests vote throughout the night on their favorites.

You can also set up a mask-making table where guests can decorate and design masks and, of course, make mishloach manot to give out to other communities.
Amazingly, a holiday that revolves around the idea of freedom and self-expression motivates us to celebrate it with those ideas in mind. So, as you think about your Purim event this year, consider how you can infuse yourself with it. How do you challenge one’s perception of what Purim “should be”?

The rest of the MHWOW team and I want to wish you a happy Purim! Have fun and be safe!