Purim, one of the most playful holidays in the Jewish year, begins at sundown on Monday, March 22, 2027. It celebrates the rescue of the Jews of ancient Persia with costumes, noise and feasting. Follow the live Purim countdown for the days and hours remaining.
When is Purim 2027?
Purim falls on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar, which usually lands in late February or March. In 2027 it begins at sundown on March 22, with the main day on March 23. In walled cities such as Jerusalem it is observed a day later as Shushan Purim. As with every Jewish holiday, observance starts the evening before.
The story of Purim
The holiday recalls the events of the Book of Esther (the Megillah): Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai foiled the royal vizier Haman's plot to destroy the Jews of the Persian Empire. The name comes from the "pur", or lots, that Haman cast to choose the date of destruction — a decree of doom turned into one of deliverance.
How Purim is celebrated
- Costumes and masks — adults and children dress up for parties and parades.
- Reading the Megillah — the crowd boos and rattles noisemakers (groggers) at every mention of Haman.
- Mishloach manot — gifts of food and drink exchanged between friends.
- Matanot la'evyonim — charity to the poor, and a festive meal with triangular hamantaschen pastries.
Count down to Purim
Open the live Purim 2027 countdown for the exact time to the first night, see more festival countdowns, or create your own countdown to share the celebration.