Purim Events to Include Food, Plays, Raffles and Readings

Many Orange County synagogues are planning events this week to mark Purim, which begins Monday at sundown. Also known as the Feast of Lots, the holiday celebrates the rescue of the Jews from ancient Persia from a plot to kill them.

Among events planned in coming days:

* Temple Bat Yahm will hold a Purim carnival Sunday from 11:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the temple, 1011 Camelback St., Newport Beach. The event will include food, games, rides, prizes and a raffle. Information: (949) 644-1999.

* Congregation Shir Ha-Ma’alot on Monday will present a reading of the megillah, or scroll of Esther, a short play, dinner and a carnival from 6 to 8 p.m. Cost of dinner and entertainment is $10 for adults and $7 for children younger than 12. The synagogue is at 3652 Michelson Dr. in Irvine. Information and reservations: (949) 857-2226.

* Congregation Or Ami will host a Purim celebration at 6:30 p.m. Monday. Those in costume will be admitted free; otherwise admission is $18. There will be games, dancing and singing. The confirmation class will perform a megillah play. The temple is at 30 Hughes, Suite 200, Irvine. Information: (949) 660-1180.

* Rabbi Arnold Rachlis and Cantor Ruti Braier will lead Purim services at 7 p.m. Monday at University Synagogue. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress in costume and hear the Book of Esther. Rachlis and Braier will speak on “The Jews of Argentina” during services at 8 p.m. Friday. The synagogue is at 4915 Alton Parkway, Irvine. Information: (949) 553-3535.

* The Hebrew Academy will hold its annual Grand Masquerade and Purim party at 9 a.m. Tuesday. There will be megillah readings at 9 and 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Children who come in costume will receive a prize. The academy is at 14401 Willow Lane, Westminster. Information: (714) 898-0051.

* The Jewish Community Center of Orange County is holding a variety of events for preschoolers, teens, seniors and families through Tuesday. Information: (714) 755-0340.