" Unlike the European, the Persian does not keep his doors shut at meal times. He would think himself deficient in his duty to God, did he not spread the table of his bounty for all; every one may share what he has, without ever being displeased on account of the number of his guests." Frederic Shoberl, Persia, 1828Sizdeh Bedar is the thirteenth day of Persian New Year and a way of celebrating the new season ridding what is thought to be an unlucky day in a happy and positive way. It's also the last day of the New Year holidays before the children return to school. Traditionally everyone goes outside for picnics and barbecues. They eat and drink, some smoke hookah pipes, play games and dance.
We were invited by friends in London to celebrate with them this year. As usual the famous Persian hospitality was abundant and we had an amazing day...
Beginning with sitting on the terrace breathing in the heady scent of jasmine whilst sipping drinks...some smoking the hookah pipe...catching up with old friends and meeting new ones...
...ate from the most delicious banquet of food....
...before being treated to a firework display which was fun especially as some of the fireworks fell over and little bangers proceeded to hail down on us sending everyone screaming into the house in fits of giggle on a number of occasions....
Finally inside to relax with tea and sweet things and play or watch a backgammon marathon....
Here is a little more insight into the customs and culture associated with Sizdeh Bedar
...ate from the most delicious banquet of food....
...before being treated to a firework display which was fun especially as some of the fireworks fell over and little bangers proceeded to hail down on us sending everyone screaming into the house in fits of giggle on a number of occasions....
Finally inside to relax with tea and sweet things and play or watch a backgammon marathon....
Here is a little more insight into the customs and culture associated with Sizdeh BedarThe clothes and hairstyles in the video below of families celebrating Sizdeh Bedar in Portland Oregan clearly show the film isn't up-to-date but it really epitomises Sizdeh Bedar and the warmth fun and hopsitality of Persian people...oh and their love for dancing which they seem to do at any and every opportunity...
Sounds absolutely wonderful Debby!
ReplyDeleteJust look at all that wonderful food ... and a mix of new and old friends is always guaranteed to be a fun time! :)
what a wonderful spread... really fancy some of that bbq now!!!
ReplyDeleteThe food was wonderful...amazing salmon...
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