A Magical Purim Will Bring Purim to Life in Arlington Heights

[Arlington Heights, IL] — “A Magical Purim” is the Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights's creative twist to this year’s community celebration of Purim, the holiday commemorating the Jewish people’s salvation in Persia of old. The festivities will be held at the Arlington Lake Golf Club on March 21st, featuring magician Tim Balster.

Billed as the most joyous date on the Jewish calendar, the daylong holiday commemorates the nullification in 356 B.C.E. of a Persian decree calling for the extermination of the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire as told in the biblical Book of Esther. Chabad’s original spin on this age-old holiday will help bring the spirit of Purim to Arlington Heights for the very first time.

"It combines ancient Jewish traditions with a modern twist," said Rabbi Kotlarsky, Director of the Chabad Jewish Center. "We focus on doing interesting and innovative programs that will maximize the enjoyment for young and old alike, yet still keeping with the holiday theme".

The event is a community-wide program, and all are welcome to join, regardless of Jewish affiliation or background. Participants will enjoy a fun filled evening with activities for all ages, a buffet dinner and of course a grand magic show.

In addition, the celebration will feature a child-friendly reading of the Book of Esther, known in Hebrew as the Megillah.

"The event is focused primarily on spirit, fun, and tradition." says Rebbetzin Chaikie Kotlarsky, who is organizing the event, "everyone is sure to have a great time!"

In the spirit of Purim, participants are encouraged to come in costume, with a magical prize distributed to all costume wearers.

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Event Recap:

What: Community Purim Celebration – A Magical Purim

Where: Arlington Lakes Golf Club

When: Thursday, March 21st at 5:00PM

Cost: $18 Adult, $10 Child (age 3-11), $60 Family

What is the holiday of Purim?

The festival of Purim is celebrated every year on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar. It begins this year after sundown on March 20 and ends at nightfall on March 21. The holiday commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in Ancient Persia from Haman's plot "to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day." It is observed by public readings of the Megillah, or Scroll of Esther, to recount the story of the Purim miracle, sending food gifts to friends, giving gifts of money to the poor and enjoying a festive Purim meal.

For more information on Purim festivities or on the holiday of Purim and its observances, contact the Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights at 224-357-7002 or email [email protected] or visit our website at www.chabadah.org.

About the Sponsoring Organization

The Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights offers Jewish education, outreach and social service programming for families and individuals of all ages, backgrounds and affiliations. For more information, contact the Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights at 224-357-7002 or email [email protected] or visit our website at www.chabadah.org.