Ariela Martin Photo
The Purim crowd at Beth El Keser Israel (BEKI).
The carnival-like atmosphere of the Jewish holiday of Purim was on display at synagogues in town as the one-day celebration began Wednesday night. People of all ages donned costumes to commemorate the story of Queen Esther, who helped her fellow Jews overcome a plot to exterminate them in the ancient Persian Empire.
Talia Colten (left) was a bird. Elie Azoff-Slifstein ( right) went as a Lego.
The BEKI Quidditch team.
Here in New Haven, the Jewish community reenacts the same rituals of the protagonists of the story by having festive meals, giving charity, and reading from the scroll of Esther, known as the Megillah.
Two young girls joined the fun at Yeshiva of New Haven.
Each member of the Greer family represented a Jewish holiday with their costumes at the Yeshiva.
Based on the Megillah story, miniature kings and queens adorned with crowns and robes rule amongst animals, book characters, and more. Purim is a joyous and fun-filled occasion for not only children, but adults as well.
The BEKI sanctuary included a takeoff on Occupy Wall Street. From left to right, Solomon Botwick-Ries, Jacob Botwick-Ries, Jennifer Botwick, and Michael Ries.
Another custom of Purim consists of the giving of mishloach manot, colorfully wrapped baskets filled with food, candy, and drinks. They are given to friends, neighbors, relatives, and teachers in the community.