Bay Area Iranians celebrate Persian fire festival in a symbolic act of resistance

BERKELEY, Calif. (KGO) -- Thousands filled the streets of Berkeley on Tuesday to celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri, the Persian fire festival held just before the New Year.

"It's the biggest event of the year. We have music, food and, of course, jumping over the fire," said Farzaneh Yassini.

The tradition, which dates back to ancient times, includes leaping over flames to symbolize renewal and rejuvenation for the year ahead. This year's festivities carried added significance for many attendees amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.

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Since the establishment of Iran's Islamic Republic in 1979, the government has discouraged the festival as a pagan relic. For many Iranians living in the Bay Area, Tuesday's celebration was both a cultural gathering and a symbolic show of support for those protesting the regime in Iran.

"There is no internet for 16 days and they say be our voice, please be our voice," said Arya Jahan.

Yassini, who came to the United States in the 1990s, said she has felt compelled to speak out since thousands of anti-government protesters were killed in Iran in January.

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"We are very proud of them because of how much they're under pressure, and how much their lives are in their hands every second of their lives. And, yet, they're doing it and they're fighting," she said.

As the conflict continues, many in Berkeley expressed hope for a future where they can celebrate their heritage in freedom and prosperity.

"We are like ties. Strongly connected," one attendee said.