Celebrate Purim at Beth Judea

Congregation Beth Judea in Long Grove invites the community to their 2010 Purim Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 27.

Costumes are encouraged for the lively evening, which includes a 6:15 p.m. Havdallah and Pizzathon ($10 for adults, $5 for 12 and under, $25 for family). At 7:15 p.m. will be an abbreviated family reading of Megillah (Book of Esther), followed by Maariv and a traditional Megillah reading.

The Jewish holiday of Purim marks the Jewish victory over the Persians, who, led by wicked Haman, sought to destroy the Jewish population in their empire. Purim unveils a story of character and courage. Its characters include the bearded Mordecais, snarling Hamans, bejeweled Esthers and silk-robed Ahasueruses.

Noisemakers will be handed out to resonate throughout the evening. As part of a mitzvah project, participants are asked to bring boxes of dry pasta, rice or vitamins to be used as noisemakers, which will then be donated to a local food shelter.

Beth Judea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road. For more information, contact the office at (847) 634-0777.