Scriptural Origin

This holiday is a religious and historical celebration of Jewish deliverance as told in the Book of Esther. After the destruction of the Kingdom of Judah, the Jews were taken into captivity by the Babylonians for 70 years. When ancient Persia conquered Babylon, Haman, royal advisor to Persian King Ahasuerus, planned genocide against the Jews, but his plans were foiled by Queen Esther -who had hidden her Jewish background- and her relative Mordechai when they won the King's favor and support, showing God's control of events on behalf of His people.

The Jews went from being the "victims" of an evil decree against them, to becoming the ones allowed by the king to destroy their enemies. The day after the battle was designated as Purim, a day of feasting and rejoicing. Purim (Hebrew: פורים, Pûrîm, "lots", from Akkadian pūru) is named for Haman's "lottery" choosing the destruction of the Jewish people. It is characterized by public recitation of the Book of Esther, giving mutual gifts of food and drink, giving charity to the poor, and a celebratory meal (Esther 9:22); other customs include drinking wine, wearing of masks and costumes, public celebration, and boisterous revelry.

Purim Dates (2007-2011)

Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar, the day following the victory of the Jews which was on the 13 day of Adar. In cities that were protected by a wall in the time of Joshua, including Susa and Jerusalem, Purim is celebrated on the 15th of the month, known as Shushan Purim. All Jewish holidays begin at sundown on the evening before the date shown. Because the Hebrew calendar is governed by precise mathematical rules and no longer relies at all on observation, it is possible to state what day the holidays will fall on for any date in the foreseeable future.

5767(2006-2007)Sunday, March 4 - Purim
5768(2007-2008)Friday, March 21 - Purim
5769(2008-2009)Tuesday, March 10 - Purim
5770(2009-2010)Sunday, February 28 - Purim
5771(2010-2011)Sunday, March 20 - Purim

Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purim and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_holidays_2000-2050#5769_.282008.E2.80.932009.29