Roseville-based caterer Shirin Asal (second from left) and customers display Persian treats.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) – Iranian Americans packed the Carmichael Elks Lodge on March 17 to mark Nowruz – the Persian New Year. The celebration ended a three-day cultural festival at the lodge.

Traditional music, dancing, cuisine and a soccer tournament were part of the bash. Despite a calendar collision with Saint Patrick’s Day, festivities reflected traditions of ancient Persia. Nowruz falls on the first day of spring and is celebrated all over the world. More than a thousand visitors joined the Carmichael event.

Iranian Americans enjoy New Year festivities at the Carmichael Elks Lodge. The celebration includes traditional Persian drumming.

With Persian jewelry, breads and meals on sale, the Cypress Avenue Elks Lodge was a temporary bazaar. Spoken by more than 500 visitors, the Farsi tongue echoed from foyer to football field. Sound-levels hit the chandeliers when a 12-piece drumming ensemble took center-stage. Hundreds of voices rose in patriotic song and the cry of “God Bless Iran.”

The soccer-mad Iranians also anointed winners of an international football tournament that was fought in the lodge grounds. A Folsom-based Spanish American-team took the $1000 prize.

The evening ended with back-to-back renditions of Stars and Stripes and the national anthem of re-revolutionary Iran.

Regional Persian garments blend with outfits incorporating Iran’s pre-revolutionary flag.

“We’re proud of our heritage but we love to show love for both countries,” enthused Iranian American Cultural and Education Center president Moe Golshani. “Carmichael Elks have been so friendly to our community. In fact, I’ve just become a member.” 

An estimated 30,000 Iranian Americans live in Greater Sacramento; many call Carmichael home. The community contributed dancers and musicians to swell the Elks July 4 parade last year.

“Carmichael’s demographic makeup is changing daily,” noted a member of center’s advisory board, Martin Ross. “It’s gratifying that organizations like the Elks are welcoming the entire mosaic of America.”

Spanish American winners of an international soccer tournament receive a $1000 check. Moe Golshani, president of the Iranian American Cultural and Education Center presents the prize.