Introduction to Nowruz

Nowruz isn’t just any New Year celebration—it’s a 2,500-year-old tradition that marks the arrival of spring and a fresh start. Rooted in Persian culture, it is a time for renewal, family gatherings, and age-old rituals that symbolize hope for the year ahead.

The word Nowruz (نوروز) comes from Persian, meaning “New Day” (now = new, ruz = day). Unlike the Gregorian New Year on January 1st, which is based on the solar calendar, Nowruz is tied to the spring equinox—the moment when day and night are equal in length. This astronomical event, typically occurring on March 20th or 21st, has long been seen as a symbolic turning point, when light overtakes darkness, warmth replaces cold, and nature awakens from its winter sleep.

But Nowruz is much more than just the start of a new year; it is a deeply cultural, historical, and spiritual event, observed by millions of people across the world. From Persia to Central Asia, the Middle East, and even parts of Europe, Nowruz is a time of celebration, reflection, and joy.

How Long Does Nowruz Last?

Nowruz itself is not just a one-day event—it spans over 13 days in Persian culture/calendar. The first day is the official New Year’s Day, celebrated with family gatherings and special meals. However, the celebrations continue, culminating in Sizdah Bedar (the 13th day of Nowruz), when families head outdoors for a day of fun and nature.

Throughout these two weeks, people engage in various customs such as:
Khaneh Tekani – The Persian tradition of deep cleaning the home before Nowruz.
Haft-Seen Table – Setting up a table with seven symbolic items that represent growth, health, and prosperity.
Visiting Family and Giving Gifts – Known as Did-o-Bazdid, it is a time for strengthening bonds and exchanging sweets or money (Eidi).
Jumping Over Fire (Chaharshanbe Suri) – A thrilling pre-Nowruz tradition where people jump over flames to cleanse themselves of bad energy.

Nowruz’s rich traditions, symbolism, and history make it one of the most unique and cherished celebrations in the world.

Why is Nowruz Important?

Beyond being a New Year’s celebration, Nowruz carries profound meaning for those who observe it:

• It represents a fresh start – Just as the earth renews itself in spring, Nowruz is a time for new beginnings, self-improvement, and letting go of past troubles.
• It reinforces community and family bonds – Nowruz is centered around family gatherings, gift-giving, and acts of kindness.
• It is a bridge between the past and present – Even in modern times, people keep ancient Nowruz customs alive, passing them down through generations.

Nowruz is not limited to one country or culture—it is a celebration that transcends borders, uniting millions through shared customs, food, and joy.

Now that we understand what Nowruz is and why it’s important, let’s take a deeper dive into its ancient origins and how it became the festival we know today.

The Origins & History of Nowruz

Nowruz is not just a celebration—it’s a living tradition that has endured for over 2,500 years. Its roots trace back to ancient Persia, where it was deeply connected to nature, astronomy, and the cycle of renewal. Over time, Nowruz spread beyond Iran, becoming a major cultural event across Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and even parts of Europe and South Asia.

Ancient Persian Roots & Zoroastrian Influence

Historians believe Nowruz originated during the reign of Cyrus the Great (circa 550 BCE), the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. It is closely tied to Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest religions, which was widely practiced in Persia before the spread of Islam.

Zoroastrian beliefs emphasized the eternal battle between good (light) and evil (darkness), and Nowruz, occurring on the spring equinox, symbolized the triumph of light, warmth, and life.

In Persian mythology, Nowruz is also linked to King Jamshid, a legendary ruler who is said to have saved humanity from a deadly winter. According to the Shahnameh, Persia’s epic poem by Ferdowsi, Jamshid rode a golden throne into the sky, bringing sunlight and warmth back to Earth—marking the first Nowruz.

How Nowruz Spread Across Regions

As the Persian Empire expanded, so did Nowruz. Each dynasty added its own touch:

• Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE): Nowruz was established as the official New Year festival, celebrated in Persepolis, the royal capital. Kings and officials from across the empire gathered to pay tribute to the Persian rulers.
• Parthian & Sassanian Empires (247 BCE – 651 CE): Nowruz remained central to Persian identity, with elaborate court ceremonies and fire rituals.
• Islamic Era (7th Century & Beyond): It became widely celebrated in regions beyond Persia, including the Ottoman Empire, South Asia, and Central Asia.
• Mongol Rule & Later Dynasties: Even when foreign powers ruled Persia, Nowruz continued to thrive, showing its resilience as a cultural and national symbol.

Today, Nowruz is celebrated in over a dozen countries, each adding its own regional flair to the traditions.

Nowruz in Different Cultures

Nowruz is not just an Iranian holiday—it is a global celebration, observed by various ethnic and cultural groups:

• Iran & Greater Persia: The birthplace of Nowruz, where it is celebrated for 13 days with Haft-Seen tables, family gatherings, and public festivities.
• Afghanistan: Known as Nawroz, the holiday includes the Guli Surkh Festival, marking the bloom of red tulips.
• Azerbaijan & the Caucasus: In Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia, Nowruz involves bonfires, street performances, and traditional music.
• Kurdish Communities: Nowruz is celebrated with colorful costumes, folk dances, and fire-jumping rituals, symbolizing national pride and resilience.
• Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan): Known as Navruz, it features horse races, wrestling competitions, and communal feasts.
• South Asia (Pakistan & India): Nowruz is celebrated by various communities, including those in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and parts of Kashmir.
• Diaspora Communities (Europe, North America, Australia): Persian and Central Asian communities worldwide celebrate Nowruz with parades, concerts, and cultural events.

Nowruz in Modern Times

Nowruz has remained relevant in the modern world, adapting to new generations while preserving its deep-rooted traditions.

• In 2010, UNESCO recognized Nowruz as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its importance as a global celebration.
• Governments in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan declare Nowruz a national holiday, while it is also acknowledged in Canada, the U.S., and Europe among Persian communities.
• Nowruz festivals in major cities like Los Angeles, Toronto, London, and New York attract thousands, featuring Persian music, dance, and food.

From its ancient Persian origins to its modern-day global reach, Nowruz has remained a festival of renewal, joy, and cultural pride.

Now that we’ve explored its history, let’s look at why Nowruz remains such an important celebration in Persian culture today.

The Significance of Nowruz in Persian Culture

Nowruz is more than just a New Year’s celebration—it is a festival deeply embedded in Persian identity, values, and philosophy. While it has evolved over time, the heart of Nowruz remains the same: it is a time of renewal, reflection, and unity.

A Celebration of Renewal and Rebirth

Nowruz arrives at a powerful moment in nature—the spring equinox, when day and night are perfectly balanced. This astronomical event has always been seen as a symbol of harmony, fresh beginnings, and hope.

In Persian culture, the changing of the seasons is more than just a weather shift—it represents the renewal of the soul and the chance to start anew. Nowruz encourages people to:

• Let go of the past – Just as winter fades away, Nowruz is a reminder to release negativity and embrace a fresh start.
• Seek balance in life – Like the equal length of day and night, Nowruz symbolizes the importance of finding harmony in all things.
• Celebrate nature’s revival – The blooming of flowers, greener landscapes, and longer days mirror personal and spiritual growth.

This theme of renewal is reflected in pre-Nowruz customs, such as Khaneh Tekani (spring cleaning) and fire-jumping during Chaharshanbe Suri—both of which symbolize cleansing the old to make way for the new.

A Time for Family, Friends, and Togetherness

Nowruz is a family-centered celebration that emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and hospitality. It is a time when:

• Families reunite – Loved ones gather for festive meals, tea, and storytelling, strengthening their bonds.
• Elders give blessings – Visiting parents, grandparents, and older relatives is a Nowruz tradition that honors wisdom and respect.
• Guests are welcomed with open arms – Hospitality is a key part of Persian culture, and Nowruz is the perfect time to share food, laughter, and kindness.

One of the most cherished Nowruz customs is Did-o-Bazdid, the practice of visiting friends and relatives. The first few days of Nowruz are filled with back-to-back house visits, where guests are welcomed with sweets, tea, and sometimes Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha, a special nut and dried fruit mix. 

A Festival of Generosity and Giving

Nowruz is also a season of giving, both in terms of charity and personal gifts. It is believed that starting the year by being generous brings good fortune and blessings.

• Eidi (Nowruz Gifts): A tradition where elders give children money or small tokens as a symbol of prosperity for the year ahead.
• Charitable Giving: Many people donate food, clothes, or money to those in need, ensuring that everyone can celebrate Nowruz with joy.
• Gift-Giving: Exchanging sweets, flowers, or symbolic gifts among family and friends is a common Nowruz practice.

A Connection to Persian Heritage and Pride

For Iranians and Persian-speaking communities, Nowruz is more than a holiday—it is a symbol of cultural pride and resilience. Despite political and historical changes, Nowruz has remained a constant thread, uniting generations through shared traditions.

Even for those in the Persian diaspora, Nowruz is a way to stay connected to their roots. Persian communities worldwide—whether in Los Angeles, Toronto, London, or Sydney—continue to celebrate Nowruz with festivals, concerts, and community gatherings, keeping the spirit alive.

A Bridge Between the Past and the Future

Nowruz is unique in that it is both ancient and timeless. While it honors traditions that have existed for thousands of years, it also evolves with each generation. Whether celebrated in a traditional Persian home, a modern apartment in New York, or a festival in Istanbul, Nowruz continues to be a festival of life, hope, and joy.

Now that we understand the cultural significance of Nowruz, let’s explore the core traditions and customs that make this celebration so special.

Key Nowruz Traditions and Customs

Nowruz isn’t just about marking the start of a new year—it’s a season of rituals, symbolism, and meaningful traditions that prepare people for a fresh beginning. Some customs date back thousands of years, while others have evolved to fit modern times. Here are the most important Nowruz traditions and what they represent.

 

The Haft-Seen Table: A Symbolic Centerpiece of Nowruz

One of the most recognizable and cherished traditions of Nowruz is setting up the Haft-Seen table. This beautifully arranged display features seven symbolic items, each starting with the Persian letter "S" (س).

Each item represents a key value for the new year:

 

Other common additions to the Haft-Seen table include:

• A mirror (reflection and self-awareness)
• Candles (light and enlightenment)
• Goldfish (life and movement)
• Coins (wealth and prosperity)
• A book of poetry (Hafez) 

The Haft-Seen table stays up for 13 days and serves as a focal point of the Nowruz celebration.

(For a deeper look at the symbolism behind each item, check out 7 Symbolic Items on the Haft-Seen Table.)

Spring Cleaning (Khaneh Tekani): Preparing for a Fresh Start

Before Nowruz begins, families engage in Khaneh Tekani, which translates to "shaking the house." This deep cleaning tradition is about more than tidying up—it symbolizes removing negative energy from the past year and making space for new blessings.

This process includes:

• Decluttering and cleaning every room to welcome freshness into the home.
• Washing curtains, rugs, and even repainting walls to mark a true reset.
• Buying new clothes to symbolize renewal and positive transformation.

Khaneh Tekani is similar to spring cleaning in Western cultures, but with a stronger spiritual meaning—letting go of physical and emotional burdens before stepping into the new year.

Jumping Over Fire: The Ancient Festival of Chaharshanbe Suri

A few days before Nowruz, people gather for Chaharshanbe Suri, a fire-jumping festival that takes place on the last Wednesday night before Nowruz. This tradition, which dates back to Zoroastrian times, involves lighting bonfires and jumping over the flames while reciting:

"Zardi-ye man az toh, sorkhi-ye toh az man."
("Take my sickness and misfortune, give me your warmth and energy.")

This symbolizes letting go of illness, bad luck, and negativity, while embracing health, light, and strength. The night is filled with fireworks, music, and laughter, creating a festive, energetic atmosphere. (Want to learn more about the fiery excitement of Chaharshanbe Suri? Check out Chaharshanbe Suri: A Fiery Persian Celebration.)

Visiting Loved Ones (Did-o-Bazdid) & Giving Nowruz Gifts (Eidi)

Nowruz is a time for strengthening relationships, and visiting family and friends—known as Did-o-Bazdid—is a key part of the celebrations. The first few days of Nowruz are dedicated to house visits, where:

• Younger family members visit elders first to receive blessings for the new year.
• Guests are welcomed with sweets, tea, and Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha, a special nut and dried fruit mix believed to bring good fortune. 
• People exchange gifts, including Eidi (money for children) as a token of prosperity.

Gift-giving during Nowruz isn’t about extravagance—it’s a symbolic gesture of love, good fortune, and appreciation.

Wearing New Clothes: The Nowruz Outfit Tradition

One of the most exciting parts of Nowruz, especially for children, is wearing new clothes. This tradition aligns with the theme of renewal, symbolizing:

• Shedding the past and stepping into a new beginning.
• Starting the year with cleanliness and positivity.
• Embracing beauty and self-care as part of the fresh start.

Families often go shopping for Nowruz outfits in the weeks leading up to the celebration, and everyone dresses in their best attire on Nowruz day.

Feasting & Special Nowruz Dishes

Like any major celebration, Nowruz is filled with special foods that carry deep meaning. The Nowruz meal varies by region, but common dishes include:

• Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi (Herbed Rice with Fish) – The official Nowruz dish, symbolizing prosperity and life.
• Kuku Sabzi (Herb Frittata) – A flavorful dish packed with fresh herbs, representing health and renewal.
• Reshteh Polo (Noodle Rice) – Noodles symbolize the unraveling of life’s knots and good fortune.
• Sholeh Zard (Saffron Rice Pudding) – A sweet, golden dessert that represents happiness and success.
• Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha (Problem-Solving Trail Mix) – A symbolic Nowruz snack, made of nuts and dried fruits, believed to bring luck and resolution to life’s challenges. For Nowruz, people often serve a mix of roasted pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds, and cashews—or even a traditional nut blend like Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha—in elegant bowls alongside treats such as samanu, sweets, and fresh fruits. This not only enhances the sense of abundance and hospitality but also invites guests to take a delightful handful as they gather.

Nowruz Day: The Main Celebration

On Nowruz morning, families gather around the Haft-Seen table, exchange well wishes, and enjoy a festive meal together. Many people step outside at the exact moment of the equinox, welcoming the new year with prayers and positive thoughts.

The first words spoken after the new year begins are believed to set the tone for the entire year, which is why people offer blessings, kind words, and good wishes.

Nowruz is a day of joy, gratitude, and looking forward to a prosperous future.

These traditions and customs make Nowruz a deeply meaningful and culturally rich celebration. But the festivities don’t end here—Nowruz lasts for 13 days, leading up to Sizdah Bedar, the outdoor picnic day.

Next, let’s explore Sizdah Bedar, the final tradition of Nowruz and its connection to nature.

Sizdah Bedar: The 13th Day of Nowruz

Nowruz celebrations don’t end with the New Year’s feast—the festivities last for nearly two weeks, culminating in Sizdah Bedar, the 13th and final day of Nowruz.

Falling on the 13th day of Farvardin (the first month of the Persian calendar), Sizdah Bedar is also known as Nature Day, and it is one of the most cherished Nowruz traditions. On this day, families leave their homes and spend time outdoors, embracing nature and symbolically letting go of bad luck before settling into the new year.

Why is Sizdah Bedar Important?

The number 13 is often considered unlucky in Persian culture, so staying indoors on the 13th day of Nowruz is believed to bring bad luck. Instead, people head outside to absorb positive energy from nature and ensure good fortune for the year ahead.

Sizdah Bedar reflects one of the core values of Nowruz: harmony with nature. Spring is in full bloom, and after days of visiting relatives and feasting, people take this opportunity to relax, breathe fresh air, and connect with the earth.

How is Sizdah Bedar Celebrated?

Families and friends pack picnic baskets, blankets, and traditional snacks and head to parks, forests, riversides, and gardens for a day of fun, food, and games.

Some common Sizdah Bedar traditions include:

Tying Grass Knots (Dozdah Bedar Ritual)

One of the most famous customs is young people tying knots with blades of grass, while making a wish for love, marriage, or happiness. This practice represents binding one’s fate to a positive future.

Releasing Sabzeh into Water

The Sabzeh (sprouted wheatgrass) from the Haft-Seen table is discarded into a river, lake, or any running water, symbolizing letting go of negativity and bad luck from the past year. The sprouts, which have absorbed the energy of the household during Nowruz, are believed to carry away misfortunes.

Playing Games and Sports

Traditional Persian games like tug-of-war, backgammon, and soccer are played, while children fly kites and run around in open fields. The day is filled with laughter, music, and celebration.

Enjoying Sizdah Bedar Foods

Picnic baskets are filled with Persian dishes, fresh fruits, nuts, and sweets. Popular Sizdah Bedar foods include:

• Kabab (grilled meats) and fresh bread
• Ash Reshteh (Persian noodle soup)
• Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha (nut and dried fruit mix) (Learn more in Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha: A Nutty Nowruz Tradition.)

Fruit sherbets and Persian tea

By sunset, families return home, officially closing the Nowruz celebrations and transitioning back into everyday life.

Sizdah Bedar in the Modern World

Even in modern cities far from Iran, Persian communities keep the tradition of Sizdah Bedar alive. In places like Los Angeles, Toronto, London, and Sydney, large public picnics and cultural events are held, bringing together thousands of people for a collective celebration of Persian heritage.

Sizdah Bedar is more than just a fun day outdoors—it is a spiritual cleansing, a farewell to Nowruz, and a reminder of the deep connection between Persian culture and nature.

Now that we’ve explored the full cycle of Nowruz traditions, let’s look at how Nowruz continues to thrive in today’s world, from global festivals to government recognition.

Nowruz in the Modern World

Nowruz may have ancient roots, but it remains a vibrant, evolving celebration that continues to bring millions of people together. While its traditions have been preserved for over 2,500 years, Nowruz has also adapted to modern lifestyles, gaining global recognition and inspiring public festivals, cultural events, and even government acknowledgments.

Nowruz and UNESCO Recognition

Today, Nowruz is officially recognized and celebrated in more than 12 countries. In 2010, UNESCO officially recognized Nowruz as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity." This designation helped bring international awareness to Nowruz as a cultural treasure that promotes peace, unity, and inclusivity.

Additionally, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21st as International Nowruz Day, reinforcing its significance as a global holiday that transcends borders, religions, and political differences.

How Nowruz is Celebrated by the Persian Diaspora

For millions of Iranians and Central Asians living abroad, Nowruz remains an essential part of their identity and heritage. Many diaspora communities organize large-scale Nowruz festivals, featuring:

• Live Persian music & dance performances
• Nowruz bazaars with traditional food and crafts
• Cultural workshops on Haft-Seen, Persian calligraphy, and poetry
• Public Sizdah Bedar picnics in major parks

Some of the largest Nowruz celebrations outside of Iran take place in:

• Los Angeles ("Tehrangeles") – The heart of the Iranian diaspora, with parades, concerts, and Nowruz markets.
• Toronto & Vancouver – Home to vibrant Persian and Afghan communities, hosting public Haft-Seen displays and festivals.
• London & Paris – Nowruz concerts and art exhibitions attract thousands of attendees every year.
• New York & Washington, D.C. – Official Nowruz events at cultural centers and embassies.

Nowruz in Pop Culture & Media

As Nowruz gains international recognition, it has been featured in movies, TV shows, and news media, helping to introduce it to non-Persian audiences. For example:

• Google Doodles now feature Nowruz art every March 20th.
• Major fashion brands and celebrities acknowledge Nowruz, with Nowruz-themed collections and greetings on social media.
• TV shows like Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown” have highlighted Nowruz traditions in Iran.

Modern Adaptations of Nowruz

While the core traditions of Nowruz remain intact, younger generations have introduced modern twists to the celebration, including:

• Digital Haft-Seen tables – Many people now create virtual Haft-Seen displays and share them on Instagram.
• Nowruz-themed gift boxes – Instead of traditional Eidi, personalized Nowruz gift baskets are gaining popularity.
• Contemporary Nowruz dishes – Chefs are reimagining Nowruz meals with plant-based, gluten-free, and fusion recipes.

Even in today’s fast-paced, globalized world, Nowruz continues to thrive, adapt, and bring people together. It is a testament to the resilience of Persian culture and its ability to bridge past and present, tradition and modernity.

Now that we’ve explored Nowruz in the modern world, let’s dive into some practical tips on how you can celebrate Nowruz, no matter where you are.

How to Celebrate Nowruz at Home

Nowruz is a celebration that brings people together, whether through traditional customs, delicious food, or simply the joy of starting fresh. While large public festivals are common in Persian communities worldwide, Nowruz is also a deeply personal and family-centered holiday—meaning you can celebrate it wherever you are.

Here’s how you can bring the spirit of Nowruz into your home—whether you’re observing it for the first time or continuing a beloved tradition.

 

Set Up a Beautiful Haft-Seen Table

The Haft-Seen table is the heart of the Nowruz celebration at home. It’s a symbolic arrangement of seven items, each starting with the Persian letter "S", representing different aspects of life, growth, and renewal.

To create your own Haft-Seen table: Choose a table or a decorative cloth as your base.
Arrange the seven essential Haft-Seen items:

• Sabzeh (sprouted wheatgrass) – For renewal and growth.
• Seeb (apple) – For health and beauty.
• Seer (garlic) – For protection and strength.
• Senjed (dried oleaster fruit) – For love and wisdom.
• Samanu (sweet wheat pudding) – For prosperity and patience.
• Serkeh (vinegar) – For wisdom and aging gracefully.
• Somaq (sumac berries) – Representing the color of sunrise and new beginnings.

Other common additions include:

• Goldfish (representing life and movement)
• Candles (symbolizing light and enlightenment)
• A mirror (for self-reflection and clarity)
• Coins (for wealth and prosperity)
• A book of poetry (often Hafez) 

 

Cook a Traditional Nowruz Meal

Food plays a huge role in Nowruz celebrations, and preparing a festive meal is one of the best ways to bring Nowruz into your home. While every family has its own specialties, the most traditional Nowruz dishes include:

• Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi (Herbed Rice with Fish) – The signature Nowruz dish, symbolizing prosperity and abundance.
•  Kuku Sabzi (Herb & Egg Frittata) – A delicious herb-filled dish representing renewal and good fortune.
• Reshteh Polo (Noodle Rice) – Noodles symbolize untangling life’s knots and ensuring smooth paths ahead.
• Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha (Problem-Solving Trail Mix) – A mix of nuts and dried fruits believed to bring luck and resolution to difficulties (Learn more in Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha: A Nutty Nowruz Tradition).
• Sholeh Zard (Saffron Rice Pudding) – A sweet treat that represents happiness and warmth.

You don’t have to cook everything from scratch—even a simple meal with Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi and fresh fruit can capture the spirit of Nowruz.

 

Dress in Fresh, New Clothes

A key Nowruz tradition is wearing new clothes, symbolizing a fresh start and personal renewal. This is the perfect time to:

• Treat yourself to a new outfit—it doesn’t have to be fancy, just something that makes you feel good.
• Encourage kids to wear bright colors to reflect the joy of the new year.
• If you’re celebrating virtually, dress up and share pictures with family and friends to keep the tradition alive.

 

Give Nowruz Gifts & Eidi (Monetary Gifts)

Nowruz is a time of giving and generosity. One of the most beloved traditions is Eidi, where elders give money, sweets, or small meaningful gifts to children and younger family members as a blessing for prosperity.

Traditional gifts include:

• Crisp banknotes (Eidi) inside decorative envelopes.
• Boxes of Persian sweets like baklava, noghl, or sohan.
• Dried fruit and nut assortments—a healthy and symbolic gift.
• Handmade crafts or personalized keepsakes.

Even if you’re far from family, you can send digital Eidi via money transfer or order Nowruz gift boxes online to surprise loved ones.

 

Join or Host a Nowruz Celebration

If you have access to a local Persian or Central Asian community, Nowruz is often celebrated with large gatherings, concerts, and festivals. Many cities with Persian communities—such as Los Angeles, Toronto, London, and New York—host public Nowruz festivals with:

•  Live Persian music and traditional dance performances
• Nowruz bazaars selling Persian crafts and sweets
• Haft-Seen displays and storytelling sessions

If you can’t attend a festival, consider hosting your own Nowruz gathering at home with:

• A small family dinner featuring Nowruz dishes.
• A Video call with relatives, sharing Haft-Seen displays and well-wishes.
• A game night with Persian board games, storytelling, or poetry readings.

 

Light Candles or Fire for Chaharshanbe Suri

If you missed Chaharshanbe Suri before Nowruz, you can still light a candle or a small fire in your backyard or balcony to symbolize warmth, light, and renewal. Fire is a central element in Nowruz, representing the cleansing of past misfortunes and the invitation of positive energy for the year ahead.

 

Spend the Last Day of Nowruz Outdoors (Sizdah Bedar)

To officially close the Nowruz celebrations, many families participate in Sizdah Bedar, the 13th day of Nowruz, by spending the day outdoors.

If you have access to a park, garden, or beach, consider:

• Having a picnic with family or friends.
• Tying knots in grass while making a wish for the new year.
• Tossing your Haft-Seen wheatgrass (Sabzeh) into a river or lake, symbolizing the release of bad luck.

If you’re in a city with no green spaces, a simple walk outdoors can still capture the spirit of Sizdah Bedar. (Learn more about Sizdah Bedar traditions in Sizdah Bedar: The 13th Day of Nowruz.)

Celebrate Nowruz in a Way That Feels Right for You

Whether you go all out with a Haft-Seen table and a full feast, or simply wear something new and share a meal with loved ones, Nowruz is about welcoming positivity, renewal, and joy. There’s no wrong way to celebrate—what matters is embracing hope, happiness, and fresh beginnings.

Nowruz FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

Nowruz is a rich and complex celebration, and if you’re new to it—or even if you’ve celebrated it your whole life—you might still have some questions. Below, we answer some of the most common Nowruz-related questions to help you better understand its traditions and significance.

1. When exactly is Nowruz?

Nowruz occurs at the precise moment of the spring equinox, when day and night are of equal length. This usually falls on March 20th or 21st, but the exact time shifts slightly each year based on astronomical calculations.

In Persian-speaking communities, the exact moment is called Saal Tahvil (سال تحویل), meaning "the turning of the year." Many families gather around the Haft-Seen table, waiting for the official start of the new year based on their local time zone.

2. How long does Nowruz last?

Nowruz celebrations typically last 13 days in Persian culture, concluding with Sizdah Bedar, the 13th day of Nowruz, when families spend time outdoors in nature.

However, in some regions (such as Central Asia and the Caucasus), Nowruz is officially recognized as a one-to-five-day holiday.

3. Is Nowruz only celebrated in Iran?

No! While Iran is the birthplace of Nowruz, it is celebrated in many other countries, including:

• Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan (where it is called Navruz)
• Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia
• Kurdish regions in Iraq, Syria, and Turkey
• Pakistan, India 
• Diaspora communities in North America, Europe, and Australia

In 2010, UNESCO officially recognized Nowruz as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, further solidifying its status as a global celebration.

4. Do Muslims celebrate Nowruz?

Yes—Nowruz is a cultural and seasonal celebration, not a religious holiday. Dating back to ancient Persia, Nowruz has been embraced by people from various backgrounds throughout history.

5. Why is fire important in Nowruz traditions?

Fire has deep symbolic meaning in Persian and Zoroastrian culture, representing purification, energy, and the transition from darkness to light.

This is why Chaharshanbe Suri (the Fire Festival), which happens just before Nowruz, involves jumping over fire to cleanse oneself of misfortune and invite health and positivity into the new year.

6. What’s the meaning behind the Haft-Seen table?

The Haft-Seen table is a symbolic arrangement of seven items, all starting with the letter "S" in Persian, representing different blessings for the new year. Each item has a deep meaning, such as Sabzeh (sprouts) for growth, Seer (garlic) for health, and Serkeh (vinegar) for wisdom.

This tradition is one of the most visually beautiful aspects of Nowruz, and no two Haft-Seen tables are exactly alike.

7. Why do people eat Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha during Nowruz?

Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha is a special trail mix of nuts and dried fruits, believed to help "solve life's problems." Eating and sharing this mix is thought to bring good luck and smooth out obstacles in the year ahead. At Nowruz, decorative bowls filled with roasted nuts—like pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds, and cashews—or a traditional mix such as Ajil-e Moshkel Gosha, are displayed alongside samanu, sweets, and fresh fruits to evoke a sense of abundance and welcome.

8. What do people do on Sizdah Bedar?

Sizdah Bedar, the 13th and final day of Nowruz, is all about spending time outdoors. Families have picnics in parks or by rivers, enjoying food, games, and fresh air.

One of the key customs of Sizdah Bedar is tying knots in blades of grass while making a wish for the future. It’s also traditional to release the Sabzeh (sprouted wheatgrass) from the Haft-Seen table into running water, symbolizing the release of bad luck.

9. How can I celebrate Nowruz if I’m not Persian?

Nowruz is a welcoming, inclusive holiday, and anyone can celebrate it! Here are some ways to embrace the spirit of Nowruz:

• Set up a Haft-Seen table in your home.
• Try cooking a Nowruz meal like Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi or Kuku Sabzi.
• Learn a few Persian Nowruz greetings (e.g., Nowruz Mobarak!)
• Attend a Nowruz festival in your city.
• Join friends or neighbors for a traditional Nowruz gathering.

Nowruz is about renewal, joy, and connection—values that anyone can appreciate and celebrate.

10. What are some common Nowruz greetings?

If you want to wish someone a Happy Nowruz, here are a few traditional greetings:

• Nowruz Mobarak! (نوروز مبارک) – "Happy Nowruz!"
• Nowruz Pirooz! (نوروز پیروز) – "Wishing you a victorious Nowruz!"
• Sale No Mobarak! (سال نو مبارک) – "Happy New Year!"
• Eid-e Shoma Mobarak! (عید شما مبارک) – "Wishing you a blessed Nowruz!"

These greetings can be used in person, in messages, or even in social media posts to join in the celebration.

The Timeless Spirit of Nowruz

Nowruz is more than just a New Year’s celebration—it’s a reflection of hope, renewal, and cultural heritage that has endured for over 2,500 years. From its Zoroastrian roots to its modern-day global celebrations, Nowruz continues to unite millions of people across different cultures, languages, and traditions.

At its heart, Nowruz reminds us to:

• Embrace fresh beginnings – Just as spring marks a time of renewal in nature, Nowruz encourages us to let go of the past and welcome new opportunities.
• Strengthen family and community bonds – Whether through Haft-Seen gatherings, gift-giving, or visiting elders, Nowruz is about connection and generosity.
• Celebrate life’s beauty and balance – From fire-jumping at Chaharshanbe Suri to spending time in nature on Sizdah Bedar, Nowruz traditions remind us to live in harmony with the world around us.

Even for those far from home, Nowruz remains a cultural anchor, keeping traditions alive through food, music, and shared experiences. Whether you are setting up a Haft-Seen table, cooking a Nowruz feast, or simply sending well-wishes to loved ones, your celebration—big or small—carries the same spirit that has defined Nowruz for centuries.

As the new year begins, may your life be filled with health, happiness, and abundance.

🌿 Nowruz Mobarak! May this new year bring you joy, success, and endless new possibilities! 🌿

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