Ignite the Night: Chaharshanbe Souri with IRSA
The cold nights are fading, and IRSA, invites you to a fiery farewell to the old year — Chaharshanbe Souri. Join us around the fire to welcome spring, laughter, warmth, and hope.
🌒 What is Chaharshanbe Souri?
Chaharshanbe Souri (چهارشنبهسوری) is the ancient Iranian festival of fire held on the eve of the last Tuesday before Nowruz, the Persian New Year. It’s a night of renewal and purification: people light bonfires, jump over flames, share music, food, and symbolic rituals. The fire represents health, light, and letting go of negativity.
Some traditions include:
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Jumping over the fire while chanting “Zardī-ye man az to, sorkhī-ye to az man” (“May your redness be mine, my paleness be yours”) — trading illness or misfortune for energy and warmth.
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Eating ajil (a mix of nuts and dried fruits) and other snacks.
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Spoon-banging (qashogh-zani), house visits, smaller ritual acts to chase away bad luck.
📆 Event Details
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Date: Tuesday, 18 March 2025
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Time: Evening (exact time TBA; likely around sunset or shortly after)
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Location: Plage de Vidy-Bourget
🎶 What to Expect
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Bonfires by the lake
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Music, dancing, and community vibes
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Traditional snacks (nuts, dried fruits)
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Rituals inspired by ancient customs of fire jumping and renewal
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Open to everyone — bring friends, curiosity, and warmth
🌟 Why You Should Join
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Experience an old, powerful tradition alive and shared
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Let go of the past year’s woes and step into spring with hope
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Enjoy warmth, laughter, and connection by the fire
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Celebrate culture and build memory with friends old and new