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 Friday March 9st this year. On Thursday March 8th, Purim is celebrated outside of Jerusalem but there are plenty of Purim activities, parties and fun to be had on both days.

As a special treat this year the Jerusalem municipality will be hosting an ICE Festival including ice sculptures of local landmarks, ice slides, and ice zoo and a large ice skating rink. Tickets are required in advance. You can rush over before the weather warms up or wait till April to enjoy the ice because the festival takes place in a tent that is artificially cooled to -10.

On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday the museums and malls begin their Purim programs. Enjoy art workshops at the Israel Museum, Children's Theater at the Museum of Islamic Art,
Bloomfiled Science Museum Bubble Show, Tower of David Four Hands Activity.

The Jerusalem Theater presents the Little Mermaid, Tararam Theater for Kids and Chanoch Roseanne.

There will also be a variety of Megilla readings throughout the city. Toddlers can enjoy a special reading in the German Colony, or if you are looking for a later megilla reading try and catch one of the Azza Zazza Megilla readings at local restaurants. The Begin Museum will also be hosting a free reading for families including mishloach manot for kids.

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!