Perhaps the most lighthearted day of the Jewish year, Purim is gleefully enjoyed by both young and old. Jam packed with activity from beginning to end, the day celebrates an occurrence in ancient Persia. The wicked prime minister, Haman, schemed to kill all the Jews in the kingdom. However, the brave actions of King Achashverosh’s Jewish wife, Queen Esther, and her uncle Mordechai, caused the evil plot to be overturned and sadness was unexpectedly transformed into rejoicing. Nowadays, the story of all these events is read in synagogue from a kosher scroll called a megillah, on both the eve and the morning of Purim. There is a jocular spirit to the reading; many of the listeners shout or wave noisemakers whenever Haman’s name crops up in the megillah. Children – and frequently grown-ups – dress up in amusing and creative costumes. After synagogue, friends and neighbors bustle about exchanging elaborately wrapped festive packages containing all manner of delicious foods. In the early afternoon, a holiday meal is enjoyed, frequently interrupted by charity collectors, who insist on singing and dancing for the hosts before accepting a donation. Tzedakah flows freely on Purim, as does wine.