Party Like it's 1886 with TJMHC's Purim Celebration
On March 13, 1886, the Arizona Weekly Citizen ran an article titled:
The Purim Ball - The Most Brilliant Social Event in the History of Tucson
The article’s author praised the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society, which had been founded just two years before, as “untiring in their efforts to accomplish both a financial and social success.” The ladies had envisioned and undertaken this fantastic society event to raise the funds needed to build the first synagogue in the Arizona Territory. Building on the success of that first Purim Ball, Temple Emanu-El opened its doors at 564 South Stone Avenue on Erev Rosh Hashanah, October 3rd, 1910.
Tucson Jewish Museum & Holocaust Center now occupies that very space, a testament to those women’s incredible vision and determination. Through intimate stories of Jewish pioneers, Holocaust survivors, and the contemporary Jewish Community, the museum shares this important history and honors the strength, resolve, and resiliency of those who helped make Southern Arizona all that it is today.
On February 28, 2026, we will continue to honor the legacy of the Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society by again hosting a fabulous Purim Ball honoring this year’s Queen Esther Award Honoree, Lynda Rogoff!
This year’s theme is “Purim Prom through the Decades.” We look forward to an evening of celebration at the Dunbar Pavilion as we gather to eat, drink, and dance the night away while celebrating the richness and diversity of our entire Southern Arizona community. Attendees are invited to dress their favorite decade – from 40s prim & proper, 60s disco diva, or 80s glamour. At this party, guests can come as they are or go all out!
Tickets are on sale now and will sell out, so get yours today! With your support Tucson Jewish Museum & Holocaust Center will continue to preserve our history and to be a free museum for all.
And click below to sponsor TJMHC’s Purim Prom or to make a gift to celebrate this year’s Queen Esther Award Honoree, Lynda Rogoff.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Tzedakah Circle: Lynda & Ed Rogoff
Royalty Circle: Diamond Foundation Rosie & Paul Kahn
LOCATION:
The Dunbar Pavilion
325 W 2nd St.
Tucson, AZ 85705