How a Soviet Family Secretly Celebrated Purim with Love and Creativity

Purim is a major Jewish holiday marked by four days off school and a lively festival with costume contests. The author’s family, raised as staunch Soviet children, had little connection to Jewish traditions. Yet, her mother still crafted special outfits and treats for the celebration. For one Purim, the author’s mother sewed a white lace dress with long sleeves and a band of golden sequins. The author wore it as a princess, complete with a pointy hat and wand, transforming into a kind sorceress. The next year, she refused to reuse the same costume, so her mother put together a Romani outfit instead.

The family also prepared a small plate of pistachio cranberry cookies, wafers, and caramel sweets for mishloach manot. In return, the author received chocolate rugelach and hamantaschen from others. Over time, she came to value her mother’s homemade costumes and the simple, lovingly gathered treats.

Now, she bakes her own vegan prune hamantaschen. These pastries bring back the tastes of her childhood and the warmth of her mother’s efforts. The author cherishes the memories of her mother’s handmade costumes and treats. She continues the tradition by making vegan prune hamantaschen, honouring the flavours and care from her past. Purim remains a time of joy, creativity, and connection for her.