Purim is almost here! Around town, you will usually find hundreds of young adults gathering at local synagogues and bars while dressed up in their favorite costumes, doing lots – and lots – of drinking. On Purim, we’re actually told by the Talmud to drink to the point of not knowing the difference between Haman and Mordecai. But, as much as some may love a stiff Raspberry Hamantini, others may choose not to imbibe for a variety of reasons.
For all those who want more Purim and less alcohol, I present to you a roundup of alternative Purim celebration ideas that provide plenty of festiveness without giving you a headache the next day.
Grab your crew and make these or these creative mishloach manot (Purim gift baskets) for friends or family, or make snack bags for a local non-profit such as Martha’s Table.
Host a Hamantaschen bake-off and try unique flavors like gingerbread apple spice, cappuccino, and caramelized onion and goat cheese.
Discuss a Purim theme such as the “masks we wear” or show off your creative side with a photo shoot at EntryPointDC’s Umasked: A Purim Celebration & Service Project.
Attend a Dry Purim party with Moishe House Columbia Heights and enjoy snacks, games, and some delicious mocktails.
Need an excuse to dress up and put on a costume? Host a Purim Mystery dinner and assign characters to your guests.
Take a road trip to Philly or Brooklyn to witness the interactive musical and sing-a-long A Very Beatles Purim.
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Who knew Purim without the liquor could be so much fun?
Share your #alternativePurim ideas on Instagram and make sure to tag @e_dcjcc and @GatherDC.
About the Author: Stacy Miller is enjoys entertaining her large Jew crew at her home and is currently the Director of EntryPointDC, the 20s and 30s program of the Edlavitch DCJCC. She represents all things Northern Virginia as the Founder of NOVA Tribe Series and is a former GatherDCGirl of the Year Runner-Up. Most importantly, she wants you know she LOVES this community a-latke.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog and on this website are solely those of the original authors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the organization GatherDC, the GatherDC staff, the GatherDC board, and/or any/all contributors to this site.
