Ah, the spring equinox – a time to plant our unpelted wheat, water our sombols and get the haft-seen ready for display. Or at least that’s what you might be doing, if you celebrate Nowruz, an ancient spring equinox bash that’s observed in parts of Asia, the Caucasus, the Black Sea Basin and beyond.
This year, locals who want to get in on the Persian New Year fun should head to Oakland on March 9 for the second annual Nowruz Market 1403. The event, which takes place at 815 Alice St. from noon-5 p.m. rain or shine, will feature arts and crafts, handmade jewelry, tattoos and, of course, food like shirini (sweets), torshi (pickled vegetables), preserves and other tasty treats. (That address is in Chinatown, and the closest BART station is Lake Merritt.)
This year’s event, which comes ahead of Nowruz’s actual date of March 19, is organized by a group of queer SWANA (South-Southwest Asian/North African) community members in the Bay Area.
“There are a wide range of vendors celebrating cultures across the region with a focus on empowering community,” says Meena Hussain, one of the organizers. “The market will feature over 20 local vendors selling traditional SWANA foods, handmade jewelry and cultural artifacts, visual art and more.”
There will also be a large haft-seen created by one of the vendors for everyone to enjoy. “A haft-seen is like an altar dedicated to bringing in the New Year,” says Hussain. “It’s filled with special items – each one represents something, such as good health.”
Last year’s market drew more than 300 people — in the rain, yet — so expect this one to be well-attended. Entry is a suggested donation of $2 to $10, with a portion of the funds going toward humanitarian aid for Gaza. One more bonus: Attendees get free chai. Find the details, including a full vendor list, on Eventbrite.
Source: www.mercurynews.com