Grand Yalda Gala celebrates Simcoe County's Persian community
Grand Yalda particpants included Bahar Tarzi (right), Mandana Hezar Liaison Officer| Office of the Minister, Hon. Andrea Khanjin, Nasrin Zamani and Mehrdad Safizadeh at the General John Hayter South Shore Community Centre Thurs., Dec. 26, 2024. (Photo: Submitted)
The Persians of Simcoe County hosted their annual Grand Yalda traditional celebration in Barrie.
The Grand Yalda Gala event is meant to bring community members together to honour the triumph of light over darkness, a central theme of Yalda.
The Persian Community of Simcoe County proudly recognized Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte MP Doug Shipley, Barrie-Innisfil MP John Brassard, and Minister of the Environment, Hon. Andrea Khanjin with awards for their unwavering support of the Persian community.
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“Yalda is more than just a celebration—it’s a reminder of the resilience and unity that define our community,” said Bahar Tarzi, director of the Persian Community of Simcoe County. “This event allowed us to not only share our traditions but also to honor the leaders who have stood by our side in fostering cultural understanding and inclusion
The event was filled with traditional music, dance, and storytelling, and embodying the true spirit of Yalda while sharing Persian traditions and values with the wider community in Simcoe County.
“This event was a testament to the growing strength and presence of the Persian community in Simcoe County. Recognizing our leaders’ support was a heartfelt moment, and we are inspired to continue building bridges between cultures,” said director Mehrdad Safizadeh.
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