How to Dress Up for a Picnic With a Purim Theme

Hamantaschen are tri-cornered Purim pastries typically filled with dates.

Purim is a Jewish festival that celebrates the events told in the Book of Esther, in which a Jewish Queen saves her people from being killed at the hands of the evil Haman. Traditionally, celebrants of Purim dress up in costume as their favorite Purim character. In recent years, it has become acceptable for children to dress up as anything, much like Halloween. For a Purim-themed picnic, find a costume that celebrates the holiday as you see fit, and that will be comfortable in an outdoor setting.

Traditional Costumes for Boys

Boys have two main options for traditional Purim costumes. The most fun of these is Haman, which many boys love because he's the bad guy in the Purim story. Haman famously wore a tri-cornered hat, which you can make out of cardboard. Because Haman is evil, dress a boy in black clothes, as long as they're cool enough for a picnic. Boys can also dress as King Ahasuerus, who finds it in his heart to spare the Jews. Any traditional king costume will do. For a picnic, consider putting a plastic crown on a boy and letting him wear whatever comfortable picnic clothing he wants.

Traditional Costumes for Girls

Many Jewish girls want to dress as Esther, the beautiful queen who convinces her husband not to kill the Jews. Find a plastic crown or tiara at a store, as well as some fake jewellery to drape around a girl's neck. If it's not too hot outside, a girl can wear a fancier dress. For more traditional picnic-wear, a girl can wear a white or pink sundress. Girls may also want to use their Queen Esther costume as an excuse to wear plenty of makeup.

Jewish Costumes

There are many other Jewish costumes that are appropriate for a Purim picnic, even if they don't relate specifically to the festival. One idea is a tzedakah box, or charity box, which are found in many Jewish households. All you need is a large box with holes cut for the arms and head. Wrap the box in silver paper and write "Tzedakah" on the front. You can also cover it in gingham paper to go along with the picnic theme. Other Jewish themed costumes include rabbi and candle.

Other Picnic Costumes

Other kinds of costumes are acceptable at a Purim-themed picnic, as long as they are comfortable for the outdoors. A clown costume is always a popular choice, and not too difficult. Sew some pom-poms onto baggy clothing and use face paint to give someone the look of a clown. A funny hat can also help. A hippie is another easy costume idea that is great for an outdoor party. Use faded jeans and a tie-dyed shirt, and add sunglasses and some flowers to go in the hair.

References

• Jew FAQ: Purim