Purim - The Festival of Masks

Purim brings carnivalesque joy to late winter, with costumes, theatrical performances, and triangular pastries. French Jewish communities embrace Purim's revelry while adding distinctive local touches.

Purim Spiels with French Flair

Traditional Purim plays take contemporary French forms. Synagogues stage satirical productions spoofing current events – recent years have seen "Macron in Shushan" and "The Masked Singer of Persia." These performances blend Jewish humor with French political satire.

"Our Purim spiel last year reimagined Haman as a corrupt politician," grins theater director Marc Goldberg. "Very French – mixing Molière with Megillah."

Mishloach Manot Innovations

The tradition of sending food gifts (mishloach manot) adapts to French gastronomy. Alongside traditional hamantaschen appear macarons shaped like Haman's hat, artisanal chocolates, and regional specialties. Some communities organize mishloach manot exchanges promoting local Jewish businesses.

Costume Parades

Jewish schools and community centers organize Purim parades, with children dressed as Queen Esther, Mordechai, and increasingly, contemporary heroes. Recent years have seen tiny healthcare workers, Republic defenders, and environmental activists alongside traditional characters.