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X-WR-CALNAME:Farsi Speakers Community Of Afghanistan in USA - شورای فارسی زبانان افغانستان مقیم آمریکا
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241109T060000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241111T230000
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CREATED:20150430T121753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231201T215734Z
UID:850-1731132000-1731366000@farsicommunity.org
SUMMARY:Eid Fitr - عید فطر
DESCRIPTION:Eid al-Fitr\, also known as Eid ul-Fitr or simply Eid\, is one of the most significant and joyous festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. The name “Eid al-Fitr” translates to “Festival of Breaking the Fast\,” and it marks the end of Ramadan\, the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection. This festival holds great religious and cultural importance in the Islamic calendar and is a time for Muslims to come together in celebration\, gratitude\, and unity. \nEid al-Fitr is observed on the first day of Shawwal\, the month that follows Ramadan\, and its date is determined by the sighting of the new moon\, making it a movable feast. The festival is a culmination of a month-long period of fasting\, prayer\, and self-discipline during Ramadan\, where Muslims abstain from food\, drink\, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset. Eid al-Fitr serves as a reward for the efforts and devotion displayed during Ramadan. \nThe day begins with a special congregational prayer known as Salat al-Eid\, performed in large open areas or designated prayer grounds\, bringing the community together in a display of unity and solidarity. Muslims exchange warm greetings of “Eid Mubarak\,” meaning “Blessed Eid\,” and express acts of generosity by giving to those less fortunate through the tradition of Zakat al-Fitr\, a form of charitable giving. \nOne of the defining features of Eid al-Fitr is the festive atmosphere that permeates Muslim communities. Families and friends come together to share meals\, exchange gifts\, and enjoy each other’s company. Traditional and delicious foods are prepared\, and it is common for Muslims to engage in acts of kindness and charity throughout the day. \nEid al-Fitr also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation\, encouraging individuals to mend relationships and strengthen bonds within the community. It is a time for reflection on personal growth\, spiritual development\, and gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon one’s life. \nIn addition to its religious significance\, Eid al-Fitr serves as a cultural celebration that varies in traditions and customs across different regions and communities. Despite these variations\, the core essence of the festival remains rooted in the spirit of joy\, gratitude\, and communal harmony. \nOverall\, Eid al-Fitr stands as a symbol of spiritual renewal\, gratitude\, and communal solidarity. It is a time for Muslims to come together with family\, friends\, and neighbors\, celebrating the end of Ramadan and embracing the values of compassion\, generosity\, and unity that lie at the heart of this joyous occasion. \n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://farsicommunity.org/event/training-for-volunteers/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:For free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://farsicommunity.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/عید.jpeg
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240616T060000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240618T230000
DTSTAMP:20260602T205317
CREATED:20150430T121753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231201T220435Z
UID:4758-1718517600-1718751600@farsicommunity.org
SUMMARY:Eid al-Adha عید قربان
DESCRIPTION:Eid al-Adha\, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice\,” is a significant and solemn Islamic festival celebrated by Muslims around the world. This festival commemorates the profound obedience and devotion of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Judeo-Christian tradition) to God’s command. Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah\, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar\, coinciding with the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. \nThe central theme of Eid al-Adha revolves around the biblical and Quranic narrative of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However\, before the act could be completed\, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead\, signifying the ultimate test of faith and submission. \nThe festival begins with the performance of Salat al-Eid\, a special congregational prayer conducted in open areas or designated prayer grounds\, symbolizing the unity of the Muslim community. After the prayer\, Muslims engage in the ritual sacrifice known as Qurbani\, where they slaughter an animal such as a sheep\, goat\, or cow\, in remembrance of Ibrahim’s act and as an expression of gratitude and submission to God. The meat from the sacrificed animal is then distributed among family\, friends\, and those in need\, reinforcing the values of generosity\, charity\, and community. \nEid al-Adha is a time for reflection on self-sacrifice\, humility\, and the importance of compassion towards others. It encourages Muslims to share the blessings they have received with the less fortunate\, promoting a sense of empathy and social responsibility. The festival also underscores the importance of submission to God’s will and the recognition that worldly possessions are secondary to spiritual devotion. \nFamily plays a central role during Eid al-Adha\, as loved ones gather to partake in communal prayers\, share festive meals\, and strengthen familial bonds. The spirit of giving is emphasized through acts of charity\, with Muslims encouraged to extend kindness and support to those facing economic hardships. \nBeyond its religious significance\, Eid al-Adha fosters a sense of community\, bringing people together in celebration and reflection. The customs and traditions associated with the festival may vary across different cultures and regions\, but the core essence of sacrifice\, devotion\, and compassion remains constant. \nIn summary\, Eid al-Adha serves as a poignant reminder of faith\, sacrifice\, and the importance of selflessness in the lives of Muslims. It is a time for spiritual reflection\, communal worship\, and acts of generosity\, as well as a celebration of the enduring values that bind the global Muslim community. \nEvening of Sun\, Jun 16\, 2024 – Mon\, Jun 17\, 2024
URL:https://farsicommunity.org/event/training-for-volunteers-2/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:For free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://farsicommunity.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Eid-al-Adhaعید-قربان-.jpeg
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230809T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240812T170000
DTSTAMP:20260602T205317
CREATED:20150430T134857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231201T060825Z
UID:956-1691568000-1723482000@farsicommunity.org
SUMMARY:Nowruz - نوروز
DESCRIPTION:The word Nowruz (Novruz\, Navruz\, Nooruz\, Nevruz\, Nauryz)\, means new day; its spelling and pronunciation may vary by country. \nNowruz marks the first day of spring and is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox\, which usually occurs on 21 March. It is celebrated as the beginning of the new year by more than 300 million people all around the world and has been celebrated for over 3\,000 years in the Balkans\, the Black Sea Basin\, the Caucasus\, Central Asia\, Afghanistan the Middle East and other regions. \nInscribed in 2009 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as a cultural tradition observed by numerous peoples\, Nowruz is an ancestral festivity marking the first day of spring and the renewal of nature. It promotes values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighbourliness\, thus contributing to cultural diversity and friendship among peoples and different communities. \nNowruz plays a significant role in strengthening the ties among peoples based on mutual respect and the ideals of peace and good neighbourliness. Its traditions and rituals reflect the cultural and ancient customs of the civilizations of the East and West\, which influenced those civilizations through the interchange of human values. \nCelebrating Nowruz means the affirmation of life in harmony with nature\, awareness of the inseparable link between constructive labour and natural cycles of renewal and a solicitous and respectful attitude towards natural sources of life.
URL:https://farsicommunity.org/event/volunteer-briefing/
LOCATION:Cherry Blossom Banquet Hall\, 46110 Lake Center Plaza\, Sterling\, VA 20165\, Virginia\, VA\, United States
CATEGORIES:For free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://farsicommunity.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/nowruz.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Bill Doe":MAILTO:bill_doe@mail.com
END:VEVENT
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231221
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231223
DTSTAMP:20260602T205317
CREATED:20150430T134857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231201T062805Z
UID:4759-1703116800-1703289599@farsicommunity.org
SUMMARY:Yalda Night | Longest night of the year - شب یلدا -
DESCRIPTION:One of the oldest Persian celebrations\, Shabe Yalda (Yalda Night)\, sometimes referred to as Shab-e Chelleh\, is yearly observed on December 21 by Farsi Speakers all over the world. Yalda is a winter solstice celebration that occurs at the end of autumn and on the year’s longest night. \nFarsi Speakers commemorate the final night of fall as the rebirth of the sun and the triumph of light over darkness since days get longer and nights are shorter in the winter. On Shab-e-Yalda\, people meet friends or relatives\, generally at the house of grandparents or the elderly\, to celebrate the longest night of the year by eating nuts and fruits\, reciting Hafiz poems\, expressing good wishes\, conversing and laughing together to welcome winter and bid farewell to fall (Persian Culture). \nWe will now share information about this beautiful and unique Persian festival. \n\n\nTable of Contents show\n\n\nYalda night: Celebrate the Longest Night of the Year\nSome individuals think that this occurrence dates back more than 7000 years. But in the year 502 BC\, Darius I legally included Shabe Yalda into the old Farsi Speakers calendar. Yalda is derived from a Syriac word that means “Birth” in English. It is a name that is very odd for a date when darkness rules the night for the longest period of time during the year\, yet it is also full of significance and optimism at the same time. \nThe shortest days really occur in the last days of fall\, and the first night of winter signifies the birth of the Sun (Mehr) and the beginning of the year\, as understood by ancient people\, including Collocating the word Aryan with the terminology tribe does not properly depict the dynastyAryan tribes from Afghanistan\, Iran\, India\, Asia\, and Europe. They\, therefore\, referred to this night as the Sun’s birth (Mehr). Some people think that this idea also serves as the foundation for Christian Christmas. \nShabe Yalda(Persian Calendar) is a lovely ceremony with a rich history and fascinating background that can also be used in modern-day settings. Since ceremonies and rituals have been a part of human life since the beginning\, maintaining and engaging in them can give us a sense of purpose and a connection to nature and the central ideas of life. \nDelicious Food\, Essential Part of Yalda Night!\n \nFood is a huge thing during Yalda night\, much like it is for Thanksgiving. Farsi Speakers used to share the last of the summer’s fruit on this particular evening. This is the night when Farsi Speakers may relax and stuff themselves silly! Watermelon is one of the necessary things on Yalda’s table. \nThe explanation is that Farsi Speakers have long thought that starting the winter off with summer fruits will prevent one from becoming sick during the chilly season. Pomegranates\, which in Persian culture represent fertility\, rebirth\, and the cycle of life\, also grace the Yalda table with their vibrant red color. \nFarsi Speakers utilize them in specific Yalda dishes\, cakes\, and pastries\, as well as serving them with salt and dried mint. Chelleh’s bedside table is likewise decorated and flavorful with nuts and dried fruit. \nYalda meetings also involve a lovely supper that usually includes pomegranates and walnuts. As a result\, Ash-e Anar\, Fesenjoon\, Anar polo\, or Nardoon(Persian local foods) are typically offered on this night. \nA modern Persian family does not consider a Yalda gathering to be complete without all the vibrant cuisine on the Yalda table (or Korsi). Persians are quite particular about how the Yalda table is decorated. \nDivan-e Hafez (Hafez Khaani)\nPurchase a Hafez book since it is one of the cornerstones of an authentic Yalda in Farsi Speakers Countries . There is usually at least one “Divan-e Hafez” in every Farsi Speakers household. Make a “Fal” out of this book\, that’s what you ought to do. \nFal is consulting the book and using Hafez’s odes as a form of divination. What you need to do is ask Hafez for advice and support by making a request or asking a query regarding your present love or life issue in your heart. The poem that emerges when you open the Divan (Hafez’s poetry book) at random would be his response to your query. \nObviously\, you need a book with the translations in it or someone Farsi Speakers standing by who can translate it for you. The oldest family member\, often a grandfather\, opens the book and reads the poem to each member of the family. \nBecause some people find Hafez’s responses to be quite accurate and relatable\, it is really a fun experience. So\, if you plan to celebrate Yalda with Farsi Speakers\, acquire your copy of Hafez as soon as you can! \nOrigins: Where Does Yalda Come from?\n \nYalda\, also referred to as Chelleh\, originates in the pre-Zoroastrian tradition of worship of Mithra\, the God of the Sun\, which is one of the best celebrations lasting until sunrise after the longest night of the year. The longest and darkest night of the year was thought by the ancient Persians to be when evil powers were most powerful. \nYalda Night or Shabe Chelleh?\nFarsi Speakers divide the year into seasons\, each of which has a name that translates to “forty days” and is called a distinct Chelleh. The first Chelleh occurs in the summer\, while the others\, which are known as the great and the tiny Chelleh\, occur in the winter. \nThe small Chelleh\, which begins from the tenth to the thirty-first day of Bahman (the second month of winter in the Persian calendar)\, contains twenty nights and days that are added to create the second forty-day period\, the small Chelleh. The big Chelleh begins on the first day of Dey\, the first month of winter in the Persian calendar\, and lasts for forty days. \nThe traditional Farsi Speakers festival of the winter solstice known as Shabe Chelleh and Shabe Yalda is still observed by Farsi Speakers and other nations such as Azerbaijan\, Tajikistan\, Iraqi Kurdistan\, Afghanistan\, and Turkey. \nWhy Do They Celebrate This Night?\n \nYalda Night\, also known as Shabe Chelleh\, derives from Zoroastrianism and in Syriac means “birth.” Yalda marks the beginning of the gradual lengthening of the day\, hence it is a celebration of the birth of the sun as a sign of light triumphing over evil and good over both. In Persian poetry\, Shabe Yalda has come to stand in for concepts like impatience\, loneliness\, and being separated from a loved one. In the same manner that virtue wins over evil\, longing and loneliness are also over. \nAccording to legend\, Yalda Night traditions were created in the distant past to guard against evil during the longest night. \nHow is Yalda Held?\nThe doorbell at a Tehran residence rings\, and it appears that everyone in the family is making their way to the residence of the family patriarch during one of the top celebrations. At their elders’ home\, the family and guests come to celebrate Shabe Yalda. \nAt home\, special arrangements are also made; a sort of heater is put up on the floor\, a large table with short legs is positioned above it\, and a sizable crimson blanket covers the entire scene. The name of it is Korsi. In the past\, in the absence of modern-day equipment\, Korsi was the solution for cold winter nights. Not all houses have Korsi nowadays\, but it is still a tradition to set up one on Shabe Yalda to gather around and enjoy the warmth. \n \nThe hosts are arranging various plates of fruits and nuts on top of the Korsi. The youngster is instructed to partake in one of the practices of this night\, which includes eating delicious almonds as well as fruits like watermelon and pomegranates. When Shabe Chelleh is approaching\, one might find these fruits and nuts put out in the streets and bazaars\, being sold and offered to passersby. \nThe doorbell stops ringing when all of the guests have arrived and the night drags on. They are consuming watermelon or pomegranates while seated around the Korsi. They consume nuts. They talk and laugh till the sun comes up\, remembering happy times and relishing the chance to be back home together and in one other’s presence. \nThey start talking about dinner as they eat. Every city in Farsi Speakers Countries has something distinctive to offer to the historic Yalda night celebration\, and food is undoubtedly one of them. Farsi Speakers Countries is a large country. chicken stew with walnuts and pomegranates called Khoreshe Fesenjoon is the dish that is served most frequently. Sabzi Polo Maahi\, a rice dish with chopped herbs and whitefish or smoked fish\, is the traditional Shabe Yalda meal in the Gilan district of northern Farsi Speakers Countries . \nHavij Polo\, a type of carrot rice typically served with chicken and saffron that has been roasted in Persia\, is the night’s special dish in Shiraz. Kalam Polo\, a dish made with rice and cabbage that is also very well-known in Shiraz\, is another popular option. Every city in Farsi Speakers Countries celebrates this night by serving the local cuisine; however\, what is interesting is that in the majority of the cities\, pomegranates or walnuts are the main ingredients for Shabe Chelleh cuisine. Like in Qazvin where people eat Nardoon (pomegranate stew) or Anar Polo (pomegranate rice) \nWhy is Yalda red? (The Special Appearance of Shabe Yalda)\n \nThe dominant color of the night is red. Most of the visitors on this special night also wear red\, so pomegranates and watermelons are not the only red-colored things. Red is often associated with the dawn’s crimson tones and the brightness of life. A holiday called Shabe Chelleh honors the victory of light over darkness. On this night\, many candles and light decorations are typically used in homes and gardens to emphasize the significance of light. The festival is sometimes celebrated with fireworks. \nYalda Night’s Registration on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage\nAccording to the news by ECO Cultural Farsi Speakers Countries and Indian narrative\, ‘Yalda/Chella’ has been added as the new inscription on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage by the suggestion of Farsi Speakers Countries and Afghanistan. Hopefully\, this news adds another chapter to the age-old friendship between two ancient neighboring civilizations. The UNESCO fact sheet proudly characterizes this ancient event as a mirror of cultural identity\, hospitality\, peaceful coexistence friendship\, and cultural diversity\, highlighting its unique characteristics that have greatly and positively influenced the world’s culture. \nSource: https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/yald-chella-01877 \nHow is Yalda Celebrated in Farsi Speakers Countries ?\nSince ancient times\, Farsi Speakers and certain other peoples in the Middle East and Central Asia have celebrated Shabe Yalda. People host elaborate gatherings at special tables and sit around late-night conversations while people read poetry and crack & share jokes with their friends\, families\, and loved ones. \nWhat is Yalda Night in Islam?\nThe religious importance of the old Persian festivals was lost with the advent of Islam. Despite the introduction of Islam and Muslim ceremonies\, Shab-e Yalda is still frequently celebrated in Farsi Speakers Countries today. “Shab e Cheleh” is now just a get-together for pleasure and festivities for family and friends. \nWhat Fruits Are Served on Yalda Night?\nPomegranates and watermelon are essentials for the Yalda table because their red hues signify dawn. Persimmon\, Beetroot\, and Ajil are additional staple foods on Yalda. \nWhat is Yalda in English?\nThe longest night of the year\, sometimes referred to as the winter solstice\, is referred to as Yalda\, which means “birth.” \nHow Old is Yalda Night?\nOne of the sacred nights in ancient Farsi Speakers Countries was known as “Yalda Night\,” and starting in 502 BC\, under Darius I\, it was a part of the Persian official calendar. Only the advent of this tradition is explained. The question remained unanswered. \nWhat Can I Bring to Yalda Night?\nVarious fruits and sweet treats that have been specially prepared or stored for this evening are presented. The event is often accompanied by foods like almonds\, melons\, pomegranates\, and dried fruit. All of these things and more are frequently put on a Korsi\, which is where people sit.
URL:https://farsicommunity.org/event/volunteer-briefing-2/
LOCATION:Cherry Blossom Banquet Hall\, 46110 Lake Center Plaza\, Sterling\, VA 20165\, Virginia\, VA\, United States
CATEGORIES:For free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://farsicommunity.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Yalda.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Bill Doe":MAILTO:bill_doe@mail.com
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