Adloyada

Origins and history

The first parade took place in Tel Aviv in 1912, organized by Avraham Aldema and his group Hevre Trask. They created provocative costumes and pranks to oppose the commercialized Purim balls hosted by Baruch Agadati. The event grew over time, moving through different streets in Tel Aviv. In 1936, it stopped due to political unrest. It resumed in 1955 with massive crowds. Later, the main parade moved to Holon after fading in Tel Aviv.

Satire and politics

The parade has always been a platform for free speech. In 1928, participants used a Menorah float to mock British colonial policies. A 1933 puppet of Hitler was displayed, leading to diplomatic complaints. Organizers defended it as public opinion. Another float in 1935, called the profiteering monster, was put on trial by community leaders. These displays allowed citizens to express dissent and humor regarding local and global issues.

Name and meaning

The name Adloyada was chosen in 1923 from three hundred submissions. It derives from an Aramaic phrase in the Talmud meaning until one no longer knows. This refers to the duty to drink on Purim until one cannot tell the difference between cursed Haman and blessed Mordecai. Other suggested names included Pura and Astoret. The term captures the spirit of revelry and confusion central to the holiday.

Modern practice

Today, the tradition continues in various Israeli cities. Jerusalem holds a version on Shushan Purim, the second day of the holiday. Haifa once hosted a unique architecture-themed parade called ArchiParhiTura. Some religious leaders have criticized the event for excessive behavior. Despite this, efforts continue to revive the parade as a key cultural event, maintaining its role as a space for communal joy and satire.

How Adloyada is kept

Participants wear costumes and carry giant puppets representing political figures or social concepts. The procession moves through city streets accompanied by music. Satirical floats critique current events and authority. Spectators join the march, creating a large public gathering. The event emphasizes humor and free expression rather than strict ritual.

When and where

It occurs during Purim. Walled cities like Jerusalem observe it on Shushan Purim, the second day.

It originated in Tel Aviv. It is now held in Jerusalem, Holon, and occasionally Haifa. A smaller parade exists in Atlanta, Georgia.

What Adloyada means

The parade symbolizes the right to free speech and public dissent. It uses humor to process political tension and social change. The name reflects the Talmudic instruction to blur distinctions between good and evil through celebration.

Days Adloyada is marked

Questions people ask about Adloyada

See also

ChristmasA festival of Jesus's birth, kept on 25 December with gifts, lights and shared mealsHalloweenAn annual observance on 31 October marking the eve of All Saints' Day, rooted in Christian tradition and Celtic heritageChristmas treeA decorated evergreen or artificial tree placed indoors to mark the Christmas season.HanukkahAn eight-day Jewish festival marking the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of a single day'

Good reading and sources

• Adloyada on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.