Holidays

You don't have to be Jewish to enjoy Purim. Often called the Jewish Halloween, Purim is a super-fun holiday when kids can do some of their favorite things, like dress up, play games, eat treats and make lots of noise.

Inspired by the great biblical tale of Queen Esther, who saved the Jews from annihilation by standing up to her husband's evil adviser Haman, Purim is celebrated by reading the Megillah (Esther's story), noshing on hamantaschen (triangular fruit-filled pastries meant to represent Haman's ears—gruesome but tasty) and rejoicing in a carnival-like atmosphere.

This year, Purim officially begins on the evening of Saturday, February 23 and ends at sundown the next day, and most Jewish cultural institutions are marking the holiday that weekend. We've rounded up the top 10 Purim celebrations in New York City, including colorful carnivals, holiday performances and even costume parades.

One of the main reasons we live in New York City is to take advantage of all the amazing cultural experiences it has to offer year-round. If one of your New Year's resolutions is to do even more fun things with your kids, kick off 2013 with an enriching New Year's Day in our incredible city.

We came up with six resolutions for families and then found activities to fulfill each one—all at places that are open on January 1, 2013 in NYC.

From all of us at Mommy Poppins, we wish you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!