The joy of Purim

Purim is a day of joy for Jews. A rabbi I am close to told me halacha (Jewish law) actually requires Jews to be happy on Purim. Beyond that, and hearing the megilla (gorilla) and the normal kosher requirements, there are no halachic restrictions normally associated with major Jewish holidays. Play music? Fine. Cameras and cellphones? No problem. Cooking? By all means! Watch the U.S.A. vs. Canada Olympic gold-medal game? Knock yourself out. In this regard, Purim is much more relaxed than shabbos or yontif. With the ability to drive, one is not tied down to a walking-distance radius and can share the holiday with friends and family all over.

So I really appreciate that.