Celebrate Purim with the Boulder JCC

The Boulder JCC has a number of Purim programs and opportunities for you to get in the spirit of the holiday. Purim is a Jewish holiday which commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, an Achaemenid Persian Empire official, as recounted in the Book of Esther. The holiday is celebrated with a telling of the story from the Megillah, costumes, exchanging food and gifts with family and friends, a festive meal, and special opportunities to take care of those in need. 

Supporting our Community 

Purim is a special time of year for masks, costumes, and giving gifts to our friends, family, and those in need. There is a custom to give money or other support to those experiencing food insecurity during Purim. On February 21 we will have a contactless food drive for Community Food Share in the parking lot of the Boulder JCC from 12:00 -3:00 pm.  

Food and Cooking

Mandy Silverman, founder of Mandylicious, was one of the guest bakers during the Great Boulder Challah Bake in November and her stuffed challah was a big hit.  Mandy is joining us on Monday, February 8 at 6 pm for an interactive demonstration on baking fun and unique challahs. Mandy will demonstrate how to make pinata and unicorn challahs, just in time for Purim! Register here. 

Hamantaschen is the traditional treat for the holiday of Purim. Learn how to make  hamantaschen with Mitten Lowe on Wednesday, February 24 at 7 pm. Mitten will teach a traditional flour and a gluten-free recipe. This is a perfect family activity for Purim. The recipe will be sent one week prior to class. Register here. 

Great Boulder Hamantaschen Bake Off 

All Boulder bakers are encouraged to enter their best hamantaschen recipe from February 1-19 with judging on February 21. Bakers of all ages are encouraged to enter. Entries will be in three age divisions: 10 and under, 11-17, and 18+. Every baker will be able to enter in two categories – Sweet or Savory with a Gluten Free dough and Sweet or Savory with Traditional Flour dough. All the rules for entry can be found HERE.

Family Fun

Leah Boonin and Caroline Saliman along with special guests from the community will tell the story of Purim with laughs and songs in 20 minutes or less on Sunday, February 21. We hope to offer this program outside and in person for 25 families at 1:30 and 3:00 pm.  You bring your own chairs, warm blankets, and hot chocolate. We will have a designated spot for your family to enjoy the show at a safe distance. This program will only be possible if Boulder County is in the yellow status drive. Advance registration is required. 

Everyone on the farm is getting in on the Purim fun. Join us for a special edition of Farmside Shabbat on Friday, February 26 at 10 am. Virtually tour the farm, sing Purim songs, and say the blessings for Shabbat. Free and open to the community. Accessible and fun for kids 0-7 and their caregivers. Everyone can dress up in their favorite costume to join in the fun. Register here.