Assalom Bahor: Uzbek Community Welcomes Spring with Joy in San Francisco

The warm sun and fresh flowers set a beautiful scene as the Uzbek Community Center of San Francisco Bay Area (UCCSFBA) held its lively spring party, "Assalom Bahor" (Welcome Spring), on Sunday, April 13th. Louis Sutter Park came alive with happy faces as more than 80 people from the community gathered to celebrate their culture and welcome springtime together.

Kids ran around laughing while families relaxed on blankets spread across the grass. At the children's area, little ones waited excitedly to get their faces painted with pretty butterflies, flowers, and special Uzbek designs. Some kids sat quietly drawing pictures inspired by the festivities, while others played outdoor games, filling the park with happy screams and giggles.

The highlight was definitely the big community meal. Spring flowers decorated long tables loaded with hot, fragrant pilaf rice that families made using recipes passed down through generations. As older folks shared memories of spring celebrations back home, they served big portions of this tasty dish - made with tender meat, carrots and special spices - to hungry guests.

"We need these gatherings to keep our traditions going for our kids," said a mom watching her little girl join other dancers. "Back in Uzbekistan, spring means so much to us - it's about fresh starts and looking forward to good things."

The dancing really showed what the celebration was all about. When the Uzbek music started playing, people of all ages joined hands in a circle - some wearing bright traditional clothes, others in regular clothes - but everyone moving to beats that reminded them of home.

For people new to the Bay Area, it was a great way to make friends. "I felt so alone when I first moved here last year," one young worker said. "But now, thanks to UCCSFBA events, I've found my people. Today feels just like being home."

As day turned to evening, nobody wanted to leave. Kids with painted faces kept playing while grown-ups sat chatting over tea, sharing phone numbers and planning to meet again soon. "Assalom Bahor" wasn't just successful because lots of people came - it brought everyone closer and helped pass on important traditions to the little ones.

For one lovely spring Sunday in San Francisco, a small piece of Uzbekistan came to life - warm, bright, and full of hope - just like springtime itself. Here are some highlights from the event: PHOTOs