Chahar Shanbeh Souri-چهار شنبه سوری

One of the most ancient Persian festivals of the year, Chahar Shanbeh Souri, marks the beginning of New Year holidays in Iran. Based on a scared Zoroastrian tradition, Persians gather outside their homes, on the last Tuesday night of the year, just before the Vernal Equinox in March. Bonfires are set up; people, young and old, try to jump over the fire as a symbol of throwing away illness, misfortune, tragedy, and hateful thought. Fire burns away, and a new spirit of joy, health, happiness, and love prevails. The traditions around this holiday are many, but the most notable is making a fabulous feast of mixed nuts, candy, and gourmet food. Ajil e Chahar Shanbeh Souri is a famous mix of colored candy, roasted almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, died figs, chick peas, and sun flower seeds. Ghashogh Zani, is the Children's tradition of dressing up in costume and going door to door, banging on small pots with their silver spoons, asking for candy. Once they fill their pots with an abundance of sweets, they return to their friends for a late night of sharing goodies. Music and dance have long roots in Persian traditions. Needless to say, Chahar Shanbeh Souri is an occasion to dance around the fire and enjoy festivities. During the long history of Persia, foreign armies from Eastern and Western frontiers have often invaded Iran's land and culture; many tried to replace Iran's ancient traditions with their own. Nevertheless, Persians have always treasured their own identity and stayed true to their own beautiful beliefs. The most popular riddle chanted on Chahar Shanbeh Souri is Zardi e tou, az man; sorkhi e man az tou-saying to the fire that the yellow and decaying old and bad goes to you from me, and your bright life and energy comes to me from you. Humble gratitude shall be given to the genius of Persian historians, writers, poets, story tellers, musicians, dancers, entertainers, and above all grandparents, for giving the younger generation of Iranians an exquisite collection of festivals which will continue to last through centuries. Happy Chahar Shanbeh Souri; may the spirit of good prevail!