Explaining Purim Gifting: The When, Why and What

Purim is a traditional Jewish holiday that is celebrated each year on the 14^th day of Adar, a month in the Jewish lunar calendar. Purim is a celebration of the survival of the Jewish people who were marked for death in the 5^th century. The story, narrated in the Book of Esther, recounts Queen Esther's bravery in saving her people from Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews.

The giving of gifts plays an important role in the celebrations each year. Here is everything you need to know about Purim gifting.

What Are Purim Gifts Called?

Giving gifts that contain traditional Purim foods plays an important role in the Purim celebrations. Purim gifts are called mishloach manot, a Hebrew word that translates to “sending of portions.” These gifts are also called Purim baskets and according to the halakha, every Jewish individual over the age of Bar and Bat Mitzvah should send a food gift that contains at least two types of food to at least one recipient.

Why Are Gifts Given on Purim?

Purim is a time for food, charity, and gatherings. Central to Purim are the four key observances: the reading of the Book of Esther, the giving of charity to at least two individuals in need, sharing the gift of food with at least one friend, and partaking in a festive meal. These four traditions combine the acts of remembrance, generosity, and communal spirit in a celebration of faith and resilience.

What is an Appropriate Gift for Purim?

Purim gifts are unique because they incorporate traditional Purim foods into each gift. Many traditional Purim foods are crafted to mock the antagonist of the Purim story, Haman.

Hammantaschen, one of the most popular Purim foods, is triangular cookie pastry that is filled with fruit, poppy seeds, chocolate, jelly, or other traditional fillings. It is also common to give gifts that incorporate a variety of nuts and poppy seeds. These Purim gifts pay homage to the legend that Esther adhered to a kosher diet by consuming only nuts, seeds, and legumes while residing in the palace to avoid violating the laws of kashrut.

What is in a Purim Basket?

Purim baskets typically contain a variety of traditional Purim foods along with other Kosher snacks and treats. Purim baskets can also contain wine because drinking is allowed and encouraged during the Purim festivities.

Purim gifts and baskets often include:

• Hamantaschen : triangular cookies filled with poppy seeds, chocolate, jelly, or other fillings
• Hadgi Badah : almond cookie
• Kreplach: stuffed triangular dumplings
• Kulich : a sweet challah
• Mixed nuts

What to Bring to a Purim Celebration

At Broadway Basketeers, we believe that Purim is the perfect opportunity to show your love and appreciation for your friends and family. That's why we've put together a collection of gourmet Purim gift baskets that are sure to brighten your recipient’s day.

Purim Wine and Chocolate Gift Tray

Price: $74.95

This original Purim wine gift set is set in a wooden tray and contains a crisp bottle of wine for the Purim celebrations along with an assortment of traditional nuts and many more perfectly paired Kosher treats.

Triple Dipping Bowl Gift Set

Price: $39.95

This unique gift set includes fruit filled Hamantaschen along with many more gourmet delights in three stunning dipping and a matching serving rack. After the delicious treats have been enjoyed, this beautiful dipping bowl set can be filled with dips and appetizers and placed on the table at the Purim meal and celebrations for all to enjoy.

Crown Heights Purim Basket

Price: $49.95

This crown shaped gift basket is filled to the brim with a delectable assortment of fruit filled Hamantaschen, gourmet cookies, assorted nuts, fruity delights, and many more gourmet treats. With a wide variety of traditional and gourmet delights, there is something for everyone in this grand gift basket.

At Broadway Basketeers, all our gift baskets are certified Kosher, making them the perfect gifts for the Purim celebrations. In addition, our Purim baskets incorporate the traditional foods of Purim along with other delectable gourmet treats. Each gift also includes a free personalized gift message so you can add your own personal touch to your Purim gift.