The first of the Purim observances is Fast of Esther which commemorates Esther's request to have all of the Jewish People fast for three days before she would risk her life and approach the King Achashveirosh with her request to save the Jews.
In most years this fast is on the day before Purim, but when Purim falls on a Sunday, since we may not fast on Shabbat (with the exception of Yom Kippur), the fast is pushed back to the Thursday prior.
Fast of Esther:
This Thursday, March 13
- Fast begins: 6:22 am
- Fast Ends: 7:53 pm
(Times are for the Clear Lake Area)