Purim 2007

This is our Holiday! Jewish Mother, Persian Father = Setareh which is Farsi for Esther/Star

Purim
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hebrew: פורים Translation: "Lots" (of a "lottery" performed by the wicked Haman) 14th day of Adar, (in Jerusalem and all ancient walled cities on 15th of Adar) (March 4-5, 2007).
Listening to the reading of the Book of Esther - the Megillah ("scroll") in synagogue, and at that time making noise with a gragger (noisemaker),

whistle, drum, or any loud object when Haman's name is read out loud. Giving Tzedakah "gifts to the poor" (matanot le'evyonim). Sending "gift food portions" (mishloach manot). Eating festive meals and special pastries called Oznei Haman. Drinking wine to the point of "not knowing the difference (ad delo yada) between the phrases "Cursed is Haman" and "Blessed is Mordechai". Wearing of masks and costumes.
Purim (Hebrew: פורים Pûrîm "lots", from Akkadian pūru) is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance from Haman's plot to annihilate all the Jews of the Persian Empire, who had survived the Babylonian captivity, after Persia had conquered Babylonia who in turn had destroyed the First Temple and dispersed the Jewish people; as recorded in the Biblical Book of Esther. It is characterized by public recitation of the Book of Esther, giving mutual gifts of food and drink, giving charity to the poor, and a celebratory meal (Esther 9:22); other customs include drinking wine, wearing of masks and costumes, and public celebration.
Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar, the day following the victory of the Jews which was on the 13 day of Adar. (In cities that were protected by a wall in the time of Joshua, including Susa and Jerusalem, Purim is celebrated on the 15th of the month, known as Shushan Purim). As with all Jewish holidays, Purim begins at sundown on the previous secular day.

Barrie is Setareh's 1st grade "Jewish Culture and Education" (also known as sunday school) teacher and I owe her for these pictures. I think Wikipedia does a pretty good job so I include it to help with the background info. for why I am including Setareh dressing up in March.