Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

Persians are an ethnic group found predominantly in Iran, but are also connected to Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Iraq, and other Arab states. It is a culture that crosses borders and regions, the Middle East and Central Asia. Persia has served as a fusion point between eastern and western traditions with far-reaching influence and a storied history.

For those who are new to Persian culture, there are other ways to learn and engage across Colorado. The listings below highlight both the Middle East and Asia, in hopes to cover the broad strokes of Persian culture and what is accessible within the state.

Celebrating Mehregan with the Persian Cultural Circle
Sep 28 | 12pm-5pm | Museum of Boulder, Tebo Center

This Persian Cultural Day, celebrated at the Museum of Boulder in partnership with the Persian Cultural Circle, is a time to reconnect with community at harvest season. Mehregan is a feast holiday to commemorate the beginning of autumn. The event will feature music, storytelling, dancing, crafts, food, and more. Tickets are $15.

Dim Sum & Oolong Afternoon Tea Service
Sep 28 & 29 | Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

This Persian teahouse located in Boulder features artisanal craftsmanship from over 40 Tajikistani artists. In Central Asia, teahouses serve as gathering places where friends meet to talk or play chess over a cup of tea. The Dim Sum & Oolong Tea Service is immensely popular and highlights the teahouse’s Asian roots. Reservations are required and the tea service costs $30 per person.

Orientale: Middle Eastern Music and Dance
Oct 26 |  5pm-7pm | Gypsy House Cafe

This exciting performance will feature Middle Eastern music and dance at the Gypsy House Cafe on South Broadway in Denver. Expect to hear sounds and see movements from several Middle Eastern countries, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Tickets start at $15, with more shows taking place through the rest of 2024.

Arash International Market
Open daily from 9:30am

This locally-owned supermarket carries a wide variety of goods, specializing in food items and spices in Persian cuisine. Their deli counter also offers specialty fresh foods. Visiting this shop in Aurora is a great introduction to Persian cuisine and cooking.

Intro to Middle Eastern Drumming
Weekly classes | Bella Diva World Dance

Learn the rhythm of ancient civilizations when you beat on a Doumbek at Bella Diva World Dance. Students will learn a variety of rhythm types including Baladi, Masmoudi, Malfuf, Saidi, Maksoum, Ayoub and Chiftitelli. If you don’t know what those are, join the class to find out! Drop-in rate is just $20.

Samarkand Restaurant
Tuesday-Sunday | 12pm-10pm

Samarkand in Aurora offers a select menu of Uzbek cuisine–the only Uzbek restaurant in the entire state. Samarkand’s owner, Shavkat Mumin, serves “traditional fare from his native land in a homey atmosphere.”