If you’re in the District and dying to celebrate Purim at a bar, a come-in-drag ball or even at an old fashioned Megillah reading, you’re in luck. Purim starts at sundown, March 15. Here’s a snapshot of some events.
Pre Purim Carnival Party & Charity Event: Hosted by MesorahDC, this carnival takes place at Sixth and I Historic Synagogue on Sunday from 7 to 9:30 p.m., featuring an open bar, food, games and gift making.
Sensory Friendly Purim Celebration: This Sunday, people of all ages are welcome to join Temple Sinai for its Sensory Friendly Purim Celebration, a perfect event for those with special needs. The service will be ASL interpreted, and healthy snacks and hamantashen will be provided. Costumes are encouraged, but please leave masks and groggers at home.
The 22nd Annual Great Latke-Hamentasch Debate: Moderated by Marc Fisher of The Washington Post, panelists for this March 12 event include cookbook author and TV personality Pati Jinich, economist and Temple Rodef Shalom president Andrew Joskow, and Adas Israel executive David Polonsky.
Masquerade & Mischief: Purim Drag Ball!: GLOE, DCJCC’s Kurlander Program for GLBT Outreach & Engagement, is once again hosting its annual Purim drag ball. The event is Saturday night, March 15 from 8:30 p.m.-midnight, and costs $25 if you register by March 9 and $35 at the door.
The DC Purim Bash: Also on March 15, at 8 p.m., hosted by an ensemble of local Jewish organizations, the bash will take place at Stroga in Adams Morgan. In addition to a Megillah reading and open bar, guests, who are encouraged to dress to impress, will receive masks.
Kesher Israel Purim Cocktail Party: Yet another March 15 event, this party, hosted by Kesher Israel in the Foggy Bottom/Georgetown area, will have a guest bartender and a whiskey presentation.
Purim Morning at Rosh Pina: On Purim, starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Flats at Dupont Circle, local Jews have the chance to attend a free Megillah reading, with a bagels and lox seudah following the reading. The event is being hosted by Rosh Pina.
Purim Carnival 2014: The DCJCC will host its annual Purim Carnival March 16, which will offer carnival games, performances, prizes, treats, a costume contest and a new Purim shpiel.
WHC Purim Carnival/Shabbat: Washington Hebrew Congregation wants you to break out the leis, surfboards and Tommy Bahama shirts for its 2014 Purim Carnival, taking place March 16 at the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center in Potomac. The event will feature games, Hawaiian shaved ice and smoothies, magic demonstrations and more.
Ohev Sholom: The National Synagogue will have its Purim Parade Extravaganza on March 16. Starting at 3 p.m. the extravaganza will include the DC Different Drummers Marching Band, cotton candy, pony rides, balloon animals, a juggling clown on a unicycle and local dignitaries.
