The renewal of nature is the essence of this multi-millennium old tradition. Throughout their often stormy history, the Persian people have endured the darkest times of hardship, civil wars, world wars, foreign occupations and the like. Persians have celebrated the height of human civilization, scientific and military achievement through the spirit of Nowrooz. At the center of this traditional celebration is giving thanks for the fortune of having made it through another healthy year and to exchange any remaining paleness and evil with the life and warmth of the fire. The part of this night especially popular with the youngsters is th e bonfire.
Every family gathers several piles of wood or brush to be lit shortly after the sunset.
Although a recent addition and generally against the law in the urban areas, the sights and sounds of firework s are very common to this night. Another routine of the Chahar Shanbeh Soori festival is the Iranian version of Trick or Treating associated with the Western Halloween night. The sound of his songs and the sight of his da nce are telling all that Nowrooz is in the air. Although the blackness of his skin has been the source of some racial controversy in Iranian intellectual circles, Haji's intentions and spirit have always been well received and loved by the people. As implied by its timing and natural significance, Nowrooz is a time of renewal and symbolizes rebirth, awakening, cleanliness and newness.