Chabad of Uptown hosted a Purim celebration to remember, packing all four mitzvot into a short time span.
The Megillah reading set the tone. Every time Haman’s name was mentioned, Guests excitedly spun groggers, drowning out the villain’s name with noise and laughter. Mishloach manot were exchanged, and matanot l’evyonim were collected for those in need, connecting fun with meaning.
The turnout was a true reflection of a community coming together to celebrate Purim in joy and unity.
Adults and children’s costumes were bright, and their faces lit with excitement. Children raced through a bouncy obstacle course, while teens and adults perfected their aim at a mobile axe-throwing station. Several hit the bullseye, and onlookers waited their turn to experience the satisfying thud of the metal blade striking the wood target.
Guests enjoyed an all-you-can-eat barbecue feast, and conversations and laughter filled the air. The celebration included nonstop music, keeping the energy high and the joy constant.
As the formal program ended, a spontaneous farbrengen (gathering) formed. Conversations turned inward, connecting the fun of the holiday to its deeper meaning: Hashem is always present, even when hidden behind a “mask.”
The celebration closed on that note, a reminder that Purim is more than joy; it is awareness of the miracles that surround us, often in plain sight.
For details on future events, go to chabaduptown.org.