Boulder Jewish News Arts, Culture, Events, Lifestyles, Holidays, Synagogues, Education
Get ready to shake your groggers and put on your finest costumes! Purim is nearly here, the joyous holiday where we celebrate the bravery of Queen Esther and the victory of the Jewish people over Haman’s plots in ancient Persia.
This year, the Boulder JCC is offering multiple ways to celebrate, including a cozy family Shabbat, a high-energy family program, and a social event for young adults. Whether you’re here for the hamantaschen, the music, or the chance to give back, there’s a place for you at our table.
JParent: Family Purim Shabbat Dinner
Friday, February 27 | 5:30 – 8 pm | $10 per person (Children under 3 are free)
Kick off the festivities by leaning into the “upside down” nature of the holiday. We’re flipping the script on tradition with a “Breakfast for Dinner” catered meal (complete with vegan and gluten-free options).
While the kids enjoy a specialized Purim program, parents can dive into the deeper themes of the holiday. We’ll gather for Shabbat songs, blessings, and plenty of costumes. It’s the perfect, low-stress way for families to enter the Purim spirit.
Family Purim Celebration
Sunday, March 1 | 10 am – 12 pm | $18 per person ($20 at the door)
The JCC will transform into a carnival of color and sound! This is our biggest bash of the season, featuring live music from the beloved children’s band Animal Farm and a whimsical shadow-puppet Purim spiel (play) to tell the story of Esther.
What to expect:
- Art & Play: Face painting with Where the Wild Things Art and creative projects with The New Local.
- Treats: Grab a “Queen Esther’s Latte” at the Café or a breakfast burrito from Community Table Kitchen.
- Giving Back: In the spirit of mishloach manot (gift-giving), we are partnering with Repair the World on several hands-on mitzvah projects, including packing snack kits for Circle of Love and hygiene kits for Haven Ridge.
Don’t forget to bring your children’s book donations for the PJ Library Book Swap the week of February 23!
20s/30s Purim Prep
Sunday, March 1 | 3 – 5 pm | $18 (covers all food and baking ingredients)
For the 20s and 30s crowd, we’re hosting a casual Sunday afternoon social focused on community and “doing good.” Before the holiday officially begins, come hang out at the JCC to bake fresh hamantaschen and nosh on local pizza.
We’ll be working alongside Repair the World and Circle of Love to prepare mishloach manot for neighbors in need. It’s the perfect blend of holiday prep, social networking, and meaningful activism.
