Jerusalem, Israel - March 16, 2025 - Approximately 70,000 people participated today (Sunday, March 16) in the Jerusalem Marching Together Giant Puppet Parade. Over the past two days, around 150,000 people celebrated Purim in Jerusalem, Israel. 

This year, with Shushan Purim on Shabbat, the Megillah was read Thursday night and Friday morning. Sunday was for celebrating with mishloach manot and Purim seuda, costumes galore, and parties. 

Leading the parade after the Police marching band, was the Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion, with freed hostage Karina Araiev; Dany Algart, the brother of Itzik Elgarat, who was murdered in captivity in Gaza; Yoav Engel, the father of Ofir Engel, who returned from Hamas captivity; Shlomi Hajaj, the uncle of hostage Rom Beroslavsky; and Dan Entebi, the father-in-law of the late hostage Uriel Baruch. 

The Jerusalem Marching Together Giant Puppet Parade was the main event of Jerusalem’s Purim celebrations, initiated by the Jerusalem Municipality in collaboration with the Train Theater.

Families and visitors enjoyed a vibrant procession featuring giant puppets, street performances, dance troupes, orchestras, and international circus acts, including performers from the Czech Republic. Spectators marveled at dozens of unique displays, such as a roaring lion symbolizing peace, a giant turtle representing a return home, a magical children's carousel, a flock of flying birds heralding hope, and an array of imaginative and dazzling characters that transformed the city streets into Israel’s largest-ever puppet theater spectacle.

Along the parade route, seven music stages featured performances by various artists and musical ensembles.

Mayor Lion said, "The Jerusalem Marching Together Giant Puppet Parade is a celebration of Jerusalem – a city of tradition, culture, and community unity. This year’s parade was a moving expression of joy and togetherness, made even more meaningful given the complex times we are living in. 

“Residents, visitors, and families once again proved that Jerusalem is the beating heart of Israel – a city of strength, hope, and unity. I thank all the partners who contributed to this event and invite everyone to continue celebrating Purim in Jerusalem. Happy Purim!"

While the performers marching in the parade were all in various costumes, many of the spectators were also. A few of those interesting Purim costumes are included in the photo essay.