Nowruz Countdown 2025
Nowruz - March 21st
Nowruz (نوروز) is the Persian New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox, usually on March 20th or 21st. It marks the first day of Farvardin, the first month of the Iranian solar calendar, and is celebrated by various cultures across the Middle East, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Balkans, and parts of South Asia. The term "Nowruz" means "new day" in Persian.
The Significance of Nowruz
Nowruz has ancient roots, dating back to Zoroastrianism. It symbolizes the renewal of nature and the beginning of spring. It is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and the practice of various customs and traditions that promote peace, solidarity, and goodwill.
Key Nowruz Traditions
- Haft-Seen (هفتسین): A traditional table setting with seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter "Seen" (س), each representing a different aspect of life and nature, such as rebirth, health, happiness, prosperity, growth, joy, and patience.
- Khaneh Tekani (خانهتکانی): A thorough spring cleaning of the house before Nowruz, symbolizing a fresh start.
- Chaharshanbe Suri (چهارشنبهسوری): A fire jumping festival held on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, where people jump over bonfires to cleanse themselves of bad luck and sickness from the past year.
- Sizdeh Bedar (سیزدهبهدر): A nature outing on the thirteenth day of Nowruz, where people spend the day outdoors, often with picnics, to ward off bad luck associated with the number thirteen.
- Visiting Family and Friends: During Nowruz, it is customary to visit relatives and friends, exchanging greetings and gifts, especially on the first day of the new year.
- Traditional Foods: Special dishes are prepared for Nowruz, such as Sabzi Polo ba Mahi (rice with herbs and fish), Ash Reshteh (noodle soup), and various sweets and pastries.
Countries Celebrating Nowruz
Nowruz is a public holiday in many countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Albania, and Iraq (in the Kurdistan Region). It is also celebrated by numerous communities in other parts of the world.