In Iran, the tradition of "Charshanbe Soori" is the festival of fire, which occurs every year on the night before the last Wednesday of the Iranian calendar year.  During this festival, which dates back to the 7th century, Iranians traditionally celebrate by lighting bonfires and jumping through the flames. In this ancient custom, they sing: "Sorkhie to az man, zardie man az to," which means: "I give my ill to the fire and receive the redness and warmth from fire." This ancient Persian "Festival of Fire," with its historic and ceremonial roots, is one of the most beloved celebrations among the Iranian people. This year, Iranians will hold the fire festival on March 19, 2019.  It always begins at the sunset of the last Wednesday of the Persian year.  It will begin that way this year, too. For Iranians in recent times, it has become an...(Read Full Post)