Purim, arguably the best holiday on the Jewish calendar, is fast approaching. On March 20 and March 21, celebrators will dress up in costume, bake delicious filled pastries called hamantaschen, give out gift baskets, and more. Here are some events to help you connect with the community in Philadelphia and enjoy the holiday.

The Whole Me(gay)llah

Repair the World, Tribe 12, and the Jewish Graduate Student Network have organized a Purim drag show. The event will take place March 22, and attenders are promised"a night of over–the –top drag performances about our beloved Queen Esther and packing safe sex/hygiene packs for at risk queer folx in Philly." While it is free to attend, organizers suggest making a small donation to support LGBTQ+ performers. 


Purim Carnival

There’s no better way to celebrate Purim than with a carnival. Thankfully, “The Jewish communities of the Greater Northeast invite one and all to a Purim carnival filled with fun, games, costumes, and of course, hamentashen!” Admission is free at this event, which will take place March 24 from 10 a.m.–1:00 p.m. It will be hosted at Kleinlife on Jamison Avenue—you won’t want to miss out.


Barcade Purim Happy Hour

The Old City Jewish Arts Center is hosting an event at Barcade, a Fishtown bar featuring vintage arcade games, in honor of Purim. The event is on March 19, and a $23 ticket will get you access to the arcade and tokens, kosher food, and a Megillah reading performance.


A Funny Thing Happened on The Way to Purim

Philly Improv Theater wants you to “celebrate Purim with an improvised Purim Shpiel like you've never seen before.” They’re hosting an improv event on March 17 at 8–9 p.m., and general admission tickets can be purchased for $8. Plus, the Maccababes improv group will be performing.


90s Purim in the Big Tent

Chabbad Young Philly wants you to "break out your neon sweatpants and jean jackets as we blast back to the 90s for this year's Purim feast!" On March 21 at 6:30 p.m., the organization is hosting a 90s–themed Purim event where you can "hear the whole Megillah, nosh on hamantashen, enjoy a massive festive meal, and schmooze at our wide–open bar!" You can purchase a ticket by making a donation, the lowest of which is $5.



Whether you’re Jewish or not, Purim is about coming together to celebrate and let loose. These events are the perfect way to do so—make sure to check them out.