Simcha in Purim Spending

Purim is that magical day when everything turns upside down.

The quietest people suddenly burst into song, serious adults don silly costumes, and somehow, despite giving away food all day, your house ends up with more than it started.

It is a day of joy, generosity, and celebration, but can also bring unexpected expenses. The mishloach manos, the seudah, the matanos l’evyonim, and, of course, the costumes all accumulate. 

If you have already completed your Purim shopping, that’s great! This is not about second-guessing your spending. It is about getting the most out of what you have, avoiding waste, and ensuring that Purim feels abundant without regret when the credit card bill arrives.

Why do we have more than we started with?

Mishloach Manos is one of the best parts of Purim. Whether you choose a theme, a homemade touch, or a simple and practical package, the mitzvah is fulfilled by giving two people two different food items each. Of course, most of us give to more than two people, which is how we end up with enough snacks to feed a yeshiva.

When the giving is done, the next challenge is figuring out what to do with the mountain of wafers, grape juice bottles, and chocolate bars before Pesach. Instead of letting everything sit in a pile until bedikas chametz, consider setting aside treats for Shabbos, school snacks, or even a family dessert platter. 

If you know you will not use everything, share it with those who will appreciate it. That way, the joy of Purim lasts beyond the day itself and your Pesach cleaning will be a little easier.

Make the most of your costume

By now, the costumes are sorted and the Purim parade is coming. Whether you went with a bought outfit, a homemade masterpiece, or a last-minute “I am dressed as myself” approach, the fun is in the transformation.

Consider keeping costumes for future use to make the most of the money spent. A well-stored costume can become next year’s Purim outfit, a dress-up box addition, or even something to swap with friends for another occasion. And if your child refused the costume you thought they’d like and insists on going as a “Talmid Chacham” (otherwise known as their regular Shabbos clothes), then mazal tov…you have just saved money without even trying.

Seudah simcha

The Purim seudah is a highlight of the day, filled with laughter, divrei Torah, and sometimes a little too much wine. While the menu is likely planned and prepared, the best way to elevate the seudah now is through the atmosphere.

A fun Purim game, lighthearted singing, or even some Purim-themed riddles can enhance the Simcha without increasing the cost. The best memories of Purim seudos do not come from the fanciest food but from the people around the table.

And if you have leftovers, which, let’s be honest, you probably will, plan ahead to use them wisely. Extra challah can become schnitzel breadcrumbs, extra meat can be repurposed for Shabbos, and anything freezable can save you cooking time in the coming weeks.

The best Purim investment

If there is one expense on Purim that guarantees a return, it is matanos l’evyonim. While mishloach manos is about friendship, matanos l’evyonim is about ensuring every Jew can celebrate with dignity.

Avoiding the post-Purim hangover…

…Not from the wine, but from the spending. 

Purim is only one day, but the costs can linger. The best way to avoid regret is to be mindful of what worked and what adjustments can be made for next year. Perhaps next time, giving fewer mishloach manos but more matanos l’evyonim? Maybe borrow costumes or make them at home? Possibly focusing on a more simple yet still special seudah? Small changes make the difference.

If Purim spending was more than expected, do not panic. Take note of what was truly necessary and what could be streamlined. Purim spending should bring simcha, not stress.

Whether you spent a lot or a little, the true simcha comes from knowing you made the most of it. So enjoy the day, embrace the spirit of generosity, and remember money comes and goes, but the embarrassment of your Purim shtick lives on in family group chats forever.