Chaharshanbe Soori: The Fire Festival of Persia 🔥
Chaharshanbe Soori is one of the most exciting and lively celebrations in Persian culture. Held on the last Tuesday night before Nowruz (Persian New Year), this ancient fire festival is all about jumping over fire, making wishes, and enjoying delicious food with family and friends.
Let’s dive into the traditions and food of Chaharshanbe Soori!
Why Do People Celebrate Chaharshanbe Soori?
This festival dates back to Zoroastrian times, when fire was seen as a symbol of purity and energy. People believed that by jumping over fire, they could leave behind sickness, bad luck, and negative energy—welcoming health, happiness, and light into their lives for the new year.
Even today, Iranians around the world continue this tradition, making it one of the most exciting nights before Nowruz!
The Main Traditions of Chaharshanbe Soori
🔥 Jumping Over Fire – The biggest part of the night! People set up small bonfires and jump over them while saying:
👉 Zardi-ye man az to, sorkhi-ye to az man!
(“Take my sickness and give me your warmth and energy!”)
🎆 Fireworks and Sparklers – In modern times, many people celebrate with fireworks, sparklers, and lanterns, lighting up the night sky!
🔮 Fāl-Gūsh (Listening for Omens) – Some people listen to random conversations on the street, believing that the first thing they hear is a sign of their future.
🔔 Qashoq-Zani (Persian Trick-or-Treating!) – Children cover themselves in chadors (veils), go door to door with spoons and bowls, and knock on doors for treats—similar to Halloween!
What Food is Eaten on Chaharshanbe Soori?
No Persian celebration is complete without delicious food! Here are some of the special dishes enjoyed on this night:
🍲 Ash Reshteh – A thick, hearty soup made with herbs, beans, noodles, and a special topping of fried onions, garlic, and dried mint. It is believed to bring good fortune for the new year.
🍗 Kebab – Many families grill kebabs outdoors, enjoying the smoky flavors under the fire-lit sky.
🍚 Ajil-e Moshkel-Gosha (Problem-Solving Trail Mix) – A special nut and dried fruit mix, including walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, raisins, and dried mulberries. It is believed to bring luck and prosperity!
🍬 Persian Sweets – From baghlava to saffron sweets, families prepare and share delicious Persian desserts to sweeten the upcoming year.
Where is Chaharshanbe Soori Celebrated?
While Chaharshanbe Soori is mostly celebrated in Iran, Persian communities in Canada, the US, Europe, and other countries also host fire festivals, keeping this beautiful tradition alive.
If you’re in Toronto, Vancouver, or Los Angeles, you can often find public Chaharshanbe Soori events in local Persian communities!
Final Thought
Chaharshanbe Suri is more than just a fire festival—it’s a celebration of hope, renewal, and Persian heritage. Whether you’re jumping over fire, enjoying Persian food, or simply watching the fireworks, this festival is a magical way to welcome Nowruz.
🔥 Would you celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri? We will be hosting an special event for Chaharshanbeh Suri in our restaurant in Richmond Hill. Visit us at Chef Reza for an unforgettable night. Book your table now!