Purim is widely depicted as the most thoroughly joyful of Jewish holidays — highlighted by celebrations that include costumes, skits, noisemakers and varying degrees of rowdiness. It celebrates the biblical story of how a plot to exterminate Jews in Persia was thwarted, and thus is embraced as an affirmation of Jewish survival throughout history. For many Jews, it will have added significance this year amid the United States and Israel’s ongoing conflict with Iran. Here’s what to know about Purim, why it’s observed and how it’s celebrated: What is Purim? The Purim holiday celebrates the Jewish victory over an ancient Persian ruler. The story of Purim, told in the Book of Esther, follows Haman, an adviser to King Ahashverosh, as he plans to exterminate the Jews of the kingdom. The plan is foiled by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai. The story takes place in Shushan, Persia, in what is modern-day Iran. Here’s an account from the Union for Reform Judaism: “The main communal celebration involves a public reading — usually in the synagogue — of the Book of Esther, which tells the holiday’s story: Under the rule of King Ahashverosh, Haman, the king’s adviser, plots to exterminate all the Jews of Persia. His plan is foiled by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai, who ultimately save the Jews of Persia from destruction. The reading typically is a rowdy affair, punctuated by booing and noisemaking when Haman’s name is read aloud. … “Over the centuries, Haman has come to symbolize every anti-Semite in every land where Jews were oppressed. The significance of Purim lies not so much in how it began, but in what it has become: a thankful and joyous affirmation of Jewish survival.” When is Purim celebrated? Purim, beloved by both religious and secular Jews, is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar. This year, Purim started on the evening of Monday, March 2, and continues through Tuesday, March 3. How is Purim celebrated? Purim is characterized by joyous synagogue gatherings, colorful costumes and raucous street parties. For observant Jews, it is customary to attend readings of the Book of Esther at synagogues, where people in costumes shake noisemakers called “groggers” every time the archvillain Haman’s name is read. Singing, dancing and drinking large amount of alcohol are also common. Children also eat copious amounts of traditional triangle cookies with a jam filling called hamantaschen, named after Haman’s hat. Other traditions include giving money to the poor and exchanging baskets treats. Common greetings to wish someone a happy holiday are: “Happy Purim” or “Chag Purim Sameach” (Happy Purim holiday). Purim in 2026 Massive parties were planned this year after a two-year break. Many cities had canceled or scaled down their Purim celebrations for the past two years due to the Israel-Hamas war. But celebrations were once again disrupted by war, after Israel and the U.S. launched an attack against Iran on Saturday. In Tel Aviv on Monday, people of all ages wearing sequined suits, bunny ears, pirate costumes and peacock feathers streamed into a mall’s underground parking lot that also functions as a bomb shelter for the traditional reading of the Purim story followed by a live band with dancing. Melanie Lidman and David Crary of The Associated Press contributed to this story. ...read more read less