There's a little magic in Purim celebration

"A Magical Purim" is Chabad of Arlington Heights's creative twist to this year's community celebration of Purim, the holiday commemorating the Jewish people's salvation in Persia of old.

The festivities will be held at the Arlington Lake Golf Club on Thursday, March 21, featuring magician Tim Balster.

Billed as the most joyous date on the Jewish calendar, the daylong holiday commemorates the nullification in 356 BC of a Persian decree calling for the extermination of the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire, as told in the biblical Book of Esther.

Chabad's original spin on this age-old holiday will help bring the spirit of Purim to Arlington Heights for the very first time.

"It combines ancient Jewish traditions with a modern twist," said Rabbi Kotlarsky, director of the Chabad Jewish Center. "We focus on doing interesting and innovative programs that will maximize the enjoyment for young and old alike, yet still keeping with the holiday theme."

The event is a communitywide program and all are welcome to join, regardless of Jewish affiliation or background. Participants will enjoy an evening with activities for all ages, a buffet dinner and a grand magic show.

In addition, the celebration will feature a child-friendly reading of the Book of Esther, known in Hebrew as the Megillah.

"The event is focused primarily on spirit, fun and tradition," says Rebbetzin Chaikie Kotlarsky, who is organizing the event. "Everyone is sure to have a great time."

In the spirit of Purim, participants are encouraged to come in costume, with a magical prize distributed to all costume wearers.

The Community Purim Celebration - A Magical Purim - will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at Arlington Lakes Golf Club, 1211 S. New Wilke Road, in Arlington Heights. Admission is $18 for adults, $10 for children ages 3-11 or $60 for families.

For information on Purim festivities or on the holiday of Purim and its observances, contact the Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights at (224) 357-7002, email info@chabadah.org or visit www.chabadah.org.

The Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights offers Jewish education, outreach and social service programming for families and individuals of all ages, backgrounds and affiliations. For information, contact the Chabad Jewish Center of Arlington Heights at (224) 357-7002, email info@chabadah.org or visit www.chabadah.org.