March 18, 2004

Norooz—Iranian New Year—is celebration steeped in tradition

This weekend's Spring Festival looks to bring the community together

By Kymberli W. Brady

Staff Writer

In an effort to preserve, promote and celebrate their culture, the Bay Area Iranian-American Community will host a two-day event to celebrate the Iranian New Year. People from as far away as Walnut Creek, Marin County and UC Davis are expected to attend.

Keeping in harmony with the rebirth of nature, the Iranian New Year Celebration, or “Norooz,” will begin this year at 10:48 p.m. on March 19—the first day of spring. It is an ancient symbolic representation, based upon the triumph of good over evil. Although its origins are unknown, the festival of Norooz dates back thousands of years, predating the Achaemenian Dynasty.

Norooz is a joyous time, according to custom, to celebrate the arrival of spring; a season of rebirth—with traditional food, singing and dancing, along with the use of tambourines, kettledrums, and trumpets—as the community spreads good cheer and welcomes the onset of the New Year.

“This joyous occasion provides an opportunity for Persians to cherish their rich heritage and enjoy the company of family and friends in anticipation of happiness and blessings in the year ahead.,” stated President George W. Bush in his message to Iranian Americans. “This year's observance comes during a challenging time for our Nation and the world. As the international community works to face great challenges and embrace important opportunities, America remains committed to peace, justice, and opportunity for all people. Throughout this time of renewal, we remain dedicated to bringing hope and freedom to troubled regions around the world.”

The festival, sponsored in part by the San Francisco Bay Area Iranian-American Chamber of Commerce , the Bay Area Iranian-American Voter Association, the Persian Center, the Society of Iranian Professionals, and the National Iranian American Council, will be held at the Mexican Heritage Plaza March 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A variety of activities is planned for what is being hailed as San Jose's newest and largest cultural gathering venue, including food booths, entertainment by Niosha Dance Academy, Azarbaijani Dance Group, and Beshkan Dance Academy, along with traditional Haft Seen Sofreh, group dancing and singing, a children's Sonati fashion show, and fun activities for both kids and adults.

Various dignitaries and celebrities, including Hooshang Touzie, the husband of Oscar nominated actress Shohreh Agdashloo, DJ Teymour, and Homayoon Asadipour will also attend the event.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza is located at 1700 Alum Rock Avenue in San Jose. Ticket prices range from $12 per person per day for adults to $5 for students and seniors. Children under 12 will be admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at Iranian and Middle Eastern supermarkets or business establishments and will also available at the door.

For more information, contact Event Manager Mehran (Matt) Kamkar at (408) 999-0211.