Purim is a joyful holiday filled with laughter, but to ensure you keep smiling the next day, it’s important to plan and budget your expenses wisely.
Here are some tips to help you get through the holiday without financial stress.
Mishlo’ach Manot
Purim turns every home kitchen into an assembly line for mass-produced food deliveries. To stay organized and cost-effective, consider the following:
- Make a list: Write down who will receive a package to ensure you don’t forget anyone or prepare unnecessary extras.
- Group recipients by category: Sort your recipients (family, close friends, neighbors, children, etc.) and create a specific menu for each group. Based on this, prepare a shopping list.
- Buy in bulk: Reduce costs by purchasing large packages and dividing the contents among different recipients. Pay attention to packaging sizes—sometimes products with the same price contain different quantities (e.g., 20 wafers vs. 25 wafers).
- Beware of misleading deals: Just because it’s a special offer doesn’t mean it’s worth it. Compare prices carefully, and remember that Passover is just around the corner.
- Homemade gifts are more meaningful: Consider preparing homemade treats like cookies or mini cakes. They are often cheaper and feel more personal to the recipient.
For creative mishloach manot ideas, check out this article: Original Mishlo`ach Manot
Costumes
Keep in mind that costumes are typically worn for only a few hours. Before you rush to buy, consider these tips:
Avoid unnecessary purchases:
- Check what you already have: Your closet may hold accessories, old clothing, makeup, and other items that can be repurposed into costumes.
- Borrow from others: Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they have costumes you can borrow.
- Explore second-hand options: Many schools and communities organize second-hand costume fairs with very affordable prices. Last year’s butterfly princess could be your princess this year!
- DIY costumes: Nothing beats a homemade costume. Encourage older children to plan and create their own—it can be a fun and creative activity.
For inspiration, here are some websites (In Hebrew) offering DIY costume ideas:
- Ideas for homemade costumes
- 10 DIY costume ideas (Mako)
- Handmade Purim costumes
If you decide to buy:
- Do some research first: Compare prices, check different stores, and look online before making a purchase.
- Wait if your child is undecided: If they keep changing their mind, hold off on buying. Today it’s a zombie, tomorrow it might be Mordechai!
- Set a budget together: Involve your child in setting a budget and managing expectations from the start.
Think ahead:
After Purim, many stores sell leftover costumes and accessories at heavily discounted prices. If you find a great deal on an item that will likely be useful, consider buying part of next year’s costume in advance.
Entertainment
Many free or low-cost Purim events take place across the country. Check online or in local newspapers for details on activities like Purim parades, Purim markets, and community celebrations. Youth movements and local organizations also often host free events.
Most importantly—enjoy every moment!
Purim is a time of joy, laughter, and celebration. Make the most of it, as Passover is just around the corner!
