Superheroes beat princesses to take crown

Prepare for the invasion of the caped crusaders.

Superhero costumes are the most popular Purim garb in the run-up to the holiday next week, Maariv reported on Tuesday.

Top of the list is Spiderman, closely followed by caped crusaders Superman and Batman, according to figures from Shoshi Zohar, the largest costume manufacturer and importer in Israel. Superhero costumes have been a firm favorite now for over 20 years, largely due to the Hollywood movie series that hit local screens regularly.

The Power Rangers grabbed fourth in the popularity ratings, with Disney princess costumes and Barbie outfits coming in fifth and sixth respectively.

Locally inspired costumes are also putting in an appearance, including those based on characters from the annual Hanukka music and dance Festigal kids’ show. The Smurfs have also had something of a revival following their recent return to the big screen in a 3-D movie.

According to Maariv, each year some NIS 60-70 million is spent on Purim costumes..

In addition, the Meir Panim charity organization has launched a drive to collect used costumes to needy families.

“Each child in Israel has the right to be happy on Purim, but unfortunately the number of children whose parents find it difficult to purchase a costume for them increases each year,”  Meir Panim director Racheli Aivenbaum told Maariv.