Purim, (“lots”) is celebrated by a public reading of the Megillat Esther, (Book of Esther) which tells the story of Haman, the Persian King's prime minister, who plotted to exterminate all of the Jews of Persia. His plan is foiled by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai, who save the Jews from destruction. The reading of the Megillat Esther is typically a rowdy affair, punctuated by booing and noise-making when Haman's name is read aloud. Read more about the story and customs of Purim.