From Esther's vegetarianism to the Jewish leap year, things that might surprise you.

Key vocabulary for this raucous holiday

How the events chronicled in the Book of Esther inspired a holiday.

The plot and themes of "the whole Megillah."

It is customary to send Purim gifts to friends and strangers.

Shushan Purim is the day when residents of walled cities, like Jerusalem, observe the holiday.

Creative ways that fulfill the religious obligation to have fun.

Lighting the candles, saying Kiddush and other Shabbat dinner rituals.

There are a handful of holidays that entered Jewish life in the latter half of the 20th century.

In addition to the Megillah reading, several additions are made to the daily prayer services.