What do hamantashen and Hawaiian cuisine, parrots and Purim have in common?
Chabad of Orange County, New York’s community “Purim Luau!”
Close to 300 people from throughout the county joined together to celebrate the joyous holiday of Purim (celebrated this year on March 8) at Goshen Harness Museum hosted by Chabad, directed by Rabbi Pesach and Chana Burston.
Purim celebrates the survival of the Jews in ancient Persia during the time of Esther, after Haman’s plan to annihilate the Jews living under King Achashverosh was foiled.
The event was designed in a way to enable the community to observe the four mitzvoth (commandments) as well as the customs and traditions of Purim, explained Rabbi Burston.
Celebrants enjoyed a delicious Hawaiian Buffet, smoothie bar as well as Hamantashen (a three-cornered cookie, a Purim tradition).
To fulfill the mitzvah of hearing the Megillah, the scroll of Esther, which chronicles the story of Purim, Rabbi Pesach read the scroll. At certain points in the reading of the Megillah, where Haman’s name is mentioned, it is customary to twirl graggers (Purim noisemakers) and stamp one’s feet to “eradicate” his evil name.
To fulfill the mitzvah of “mishloach manot,” giving gifts of food, special Hawaiian cups – filled with goodies – were available as take-home door prizes.
The event also featured a masquerade (a Purim tradition) and a special children’s program. One of the evening’s highlights was a phenomenal and interactive show with exotic parrots of the world by “The Parrot Rebbe.”
Many community volunteers and sponsors contributed greatly to the event.
To find out more about Chabad’s holiday programs, call Rabbi Pesach and Chana Burston at 782-2770, write [email protected] or log onto
www.ChabadOrange.com.
Wow Pesach well done. Look like everyone had fun. Awesome theme.