The following is the list of frequently asked questions and answers about this year’s Norouz party:

Q. What is the agenda for the event?

A. The agenda includes a short live traditional Persian music and song, dinner, DJ music and dance. DJ Amin will be there to provide the music.

Q. Why are you offering a buffet? Why not a plated dinner like in some of the past events?

A. The logistics of selling tickets based on meal type is very difficult. One of the lessons we learned was that in some cases one type of meal (i.e. fish) was served to half the people at the table while the other half was waiting for their meal (i.e. chicken). A buffet provides more variety and convenience.

Q. Isn’t this event a bit pricy?

A. We received many positive comments about the quality and the location of the past Norouz events which were held in Crowne Plaza. Many people indicated that they were willing to pay a bit more to party at a good place. Obviously a higher quality place costs more. However, we believe we Iranians deserve to celebrate this ‘once-a-year’ event in a respectable setting. This year despite the increased costs, we have kept the ticket price the same as prior years and are actively seeking sponsorship of this event to offset some of the costs. If you would like to participate in sponsorship of this event please let us know!

Q. Why aren’t you inviting some top Persian singers from California?

A. Considering the number of Iranian Americans here in Central Virginia, the ticket cost would have been over $100 per person. While some people would have paid such price, it would have been unaffordable for others. We believe the event should be as inclusive as possible, so our community can celebrate the Persian New Year together. We still welcome any ideas for next year’s party.

Q. Why are there differences in ticket prices for members and non-members?

A. The members have already paid $15 membership dues. We anticipate we will be paying a portion of the cost of the event using the membership dues. Therefore, we are providing a discount to the members. However, please keep in mind that membership is open to all residents of Central Virginia. We encourage you to become members. As with the past events, there will be discount for members for this and future events.

Q. What are you serving for dinner/drinks?

A. Fish, chicken, beef, rice, vegetables, salads, desert, ice tea, coffee, tea and Persian sweets.

Q. Why did you pick this location?

A. This hotel is one of the premier hotels in the area, and it met our requirements. It is convenient for our friends in West End, Southern suburbs as well as other Central Virginia locations.

Q. What is the parking situation?

A. Free parking is available at the hotel.

Q. Are organizers also paying for their own tickets?

A. Yes. The organizers and their families as well as all volunteers pay for their own tickets.

Q. How much such an event cost? Do you expect to make any money?

A. This is a non-profit event. The information will be included in the Society’s financial report and will be presented in the annual meeting of the Society in April. The meeting is open to all members of the Society. Please plan to attend and vote your choices for the new officers!

Q. Do you accept sponsorships for this event?

A. Yes! We are actively soliciting sponsorships for this event. There are different sponsorship levels available. Please send us an email or contact one of the board members for details.

If you have any additional questions, please send them to cvias@comcast.net. Who knows, perhaps your question ends up here on this page.