As winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge, millions of people across the world prepare for one of the most cherished celebrations in Persian culture—Nowruz, the Persian New Year.
Rooted in ancient traditions and observed for over 3,000 years, Nowruz is more than just a holiday; it is a time of renewal, joy, and cultural unity.
From Iran to Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and even parts of the Middle East and the Balkans, this centuries-old festival continues to bring families and communities together in celebration of a fresh start.
But what makes Nowruz so special, and why does it continue to thrive in modern times? As festivities begin on March 20 or 21, let’s explore the customs, history, and global significance of Nowruz.
The Origins of Nowruz: A Celebration of Renewal
Nowruz, which means “New Day” in Persian, marks the first day of Farvardin, the first month in the Persian calendar. The festival coincides with the spring equinox, symbolizing rebirth and the triumph of light over darkness.
Historians trace Nowruz back to Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest religions, which emphasized the importance of nature, cosmic balance, and seasonal changes.
Although the festival’s roots lie in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), Nowruz has survived centuries of political and religious shifts, adapting to local cultures and evolving into a universal celebration of hope and renewal.
Nowruz Traditions: How the Persian New Year is Celebrated
Nowruz is more than just a single day—it is a 13-day festival filled with deep-rooted traditions. These customs, passed down for generations, reflect themes of family, renewal, and good fortune.
1. Khaneh-Tekani – Spring Cleaning
Before Nowruz begins, families thoroughly clean their homes, a practice known as Khaneh-Tekani (literally meaning “shaking the house”). This symbolizes getting rid of the old and negative energy to welcome the new year with a fresh and positive mindset.
2. Haft-Seen – The Iconic Nowruz Table
One of the most recognized elements of Nowruz is the Haft-Seen table, an arrangement of seven symbolic items that start with the Persian letter “S” (Seen). Each item represents a blessing for the new year:
- Sabzeh (Sprouts or Wheatgrass) – Growth, renewal, and prosperity
- Samanu (Sweet Pudding) – Strength and patience
- Senjed (Dried Oleaster Fruit) – Love and wisdom
- Seer (Garlic) – Health and protection
- Seeb (Apple) – Beauty and good health
- Somaq (Sumac Berries) – The color of sunrise, symbolizing new beginnings
- Serkeh (Vinegar) – Patience and wisdom
Additionally, people may add a mirror (symbolizing reflection), candles (representing light), painted eggs (fertility), goldfish (life), and a book of poetry or a holy text.
3. Chaharshanbe Suri – Jumping Over Fire
On the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, people celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri, an ancient fire-jumping festival. Participants leap over small bonfires while chanting:
“Zardi-ye man az to, sorkhi-ye to az man!”
(“Take my yellow (sickness), give me your red (energy and warmth)!”)
This fire ritual symbolizes letting go of misfortunes and welcoming health and happiness.
4. Nowruz Visits and Feasts
During Nowruz, families visit elders, friends, and relatives to exchange well wishes. They share traditional Persian dishes, including:
- Sabzi Polo ba Mahi – Herbed rice with fish, symbolizing abundance
- Reshteh Polo – Rice with noodles, representing paths and destiny
- Ash Reshteh – A thick noodle soup, symbolizing good fortune
Children often receive Eidi (gifts of money or gold coins) from older family members as a blessing for prosperity.
5. Sizdah Bedar – The Festival’s Grand Finale
On the 13th day of Nowruz, families head outdoors for Sizdah Bedar, a day of picnicking, laughter, and connection with nature. Superstitiously, the 13th day is considered unlucky, so people spend the day outside to avoid bad luck.
A key tradition is throwing Sabzeh (sprouts from the Haft-Seen) into running water, symbolizing the release of past worries and negativity.
Which Countries Celebrate Nowruz?
Nowruz is widely celebrated across regions influenced by Persian culture. Each country has its own variations of the festival:
- Iran – The heart of Nowruz, where government offices and businesses close for two weeks
- Afghanistan – Marked by Buzkashi, a horseback competition similar to polo
- Tajikistan & Uzbekistan – Celebrations include large public festivals and traditional music
- Azerbaijan – Fire-jumping and folk dances are central to Nowruz traditions
- Iraq (Kurdistan Region) – Kurdish communities celebrate with colorful festivals and music
- Turkey & Balkans – Certain ethnic groups, including Kurds and Persians, celebrate Nowruz as a symbol of resistance and cultural pride
Nowruz is also recognized by the United Nations, which declared March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz in 2010.
Nowruz Amid Global Challenges in 2025
With the world facing wars, economic uncertainty, and environmental crises, Nowruz remains a symbol of endurance.
- Iran’s Economic Crisis: Many Iranians struggle to afford lavish Nowruz celebrations, but the spirit of family and togetherness remains strong.
- Afghanistan’s Political Situation: Taliban restrictions have made some public Nowruz celebrations difficult, yet Afghans continue to mark the holiday in private.
- Climate Change: Concerns over droughts and deforestation have led to eco-friendly Nowruz movements, with people planting trees instead of using firecrackers.
Despite these challenges, Nowruz thrives—proving that culture outlasts conflict
A Brief History of Nowruz
- 3000 BCE – Zoroastrian Roots
- Nowruz originates in ancient Persia, linked to Zoroastrianism and nature worship.
- 550 BCE – The Achaemenid Empire
- King Cyrus the Great celebrates Nowruz as a state holiday in the Persian Empire.
- Islamic Conquest (7th Century CE)
- Despite political changes, Nowruz survives as a cultural tradition.
- Mongol Invasions (13th Century)
- Nowruz celebrations continue, showing resilience amid turmoil.
- Safavid Dynasty (16th Century)
- Nowruz becomes deeply integrated into Persian and Islamic culture.
- 19th-20th Century – Spread of Nowruz
- Persian influence expands, bringing Nowruz to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and parts of the Middle East.
- 1979 – Iranian Revolution
- The new Islamic government attempts to downplay Nowruz, but public celebrations persist.
- 2010 – UN Recognition
- Nowruz is declared an International Day of Celebration.
- 2024 – Nowruz Today
- Celebrated by millions worldwide, despite political and social challenges.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Nowruz
Nowruz is not just a New Year celebration; it is a cultural identity that has united millions for centuries. It carries messages of peace, rebirth, and joy that transcend borders and generations.
As millions gather around Haft-Seen tables, jump over fires, and picnic in green fields, they are reminded of one simple truth: No matter how tough life gets, there is always a new beginning.
Happy Nowruz! (Nowruz Mobarak!)