Purim is just around the corner and the smell of Oznei Haman is everywhere. Children have already begun to dress up in their gannim and schools and costume stores have popped up on every street corner.

Purim in Jerusalem seems to last for over a week although it will actually be celebrated on Monday March 21st this year. On Sunday, Purim is celebrated outside of Jerusalem but there are plenty of Purim activities, parties and fun to be had on both days.

This Friday (March 18th) there will be a pre-Purim street fair on Emek Refaim run by the Ginot Ha'ir and a special celebration at the Jerusalem Bird Observatory. If you haven't had a chance to see it yet, then its a good time to go Ice Skating in Kikar Safra before the weather warms up.

On Sunday and Monday the museums and malls begin their Purim programs. Enjoy art workshops at the Israel Museum, Children's Theater at the Museum of Islamic Art, a theatrical tour of the Museum of Italian Art and a Mayumana rythm workshop at the Tower of David Museum.

If you like to dress up then take advantage of the Terminal (Time Elevator) free offer. Come dressed up as a doctor and receive free admission to their 3D movie about the body, come dressed as a person from India for free access to their Wonders of India movie or as an astronaut for free admission to their Wonders of the Universe movie.

Other city events include a Purim parade at Mamilla Mall, Drumming Circle and Megilla Reading in Talbieh and HOP live at Binyanei Hauma.

If you are planning your own party and still looking for that special magician, storyteller or face painter, make sure to look up our Party Entertainers Directory for some great options.

Let the Purim Fun in Jerusalem begin!