Spring isn’t just a season—it’s a reset. And in Persian culture, it’s the ultimate new beginning.
Nowruz, the Persian New Year, kicks off right at the spring equinox—when day and night are perfectly balanced. It’s been around for over 3,000 years, celebrating renewal, light, and all things fresh. Think of it as nature’s way of saying, "Let's start over."
So, how do Persians celebrate? Let’s break it down.
What is Nowruz?
Nowruz means “New Day” in Persian. But it’s more than just flipping the calendar—it’s a full-on refresh for the soul, home, and mind.
Unlike January 1st, which feels like forcing a fresh start in the dead of winter, Nowruz makes sense. The world is waking up, flowers are blooming, and everything just feels lighter.
Nowruz Traditions: A Ritual for Renewal
🏡 Spring Cleaning on Steroids
Persians go all out with Khaneh Tekani, aka shaking the house. Closets? Purged. Floors? Scrubbed. Energy? Cleansed. It’s about clearing out the old to make room for the good.
🔥 Jumping Over Fire (Literally)
A few days before Nowruz, Persians celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri by jumping over small bonfires while saying, “My sickness to you, your warmth to me.” Basically, burning away bad vibes and stepping into the new year fresh.
🏺 The Famous Haft-Seen Table
This is where Nowruz gets aesthetic. Families set up a Haft-Seen table with seven symbolic items (all starting with “S” in Farsi). Each one represents something important for the year ahead:
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Sabzeh (Sprouts) – Growth 🌱
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Samanu (Sweet Pudding) – Strength 💪
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Senjed (Dried Oleaster Fruit) – Love ❤️
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Serkeh (Vinegar) – Wisdom 🍶
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Seeb (Apple) – Health 🍏
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Sir (Garlic) – Protection 🧄
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Somāq (Sumac Berries) – Sunrise & New Beginnings ☀️
Some families add goldfish (for life), painted eggs (fertility), and a mirror (self-reflection) to make it even more special.
🎉 13 Days of Feasting & Fun
Nowruz celebrations last nearly two weeks. Families visit each other, feast on Persian dishes, and give kids Eidi (cash gifts). It all ends with Sizdah Bedar, where everyone heads outdoors for a national picnic to shake off bad luck and soak in good vibes.
Nowruz & Tea: A Match Made in Tradition
Persian celebrations = endless cups of tea.
Tea (chai) isn’t just a drink in Persian culture—it’s a ritual. It’s what you serve when guests arrive, what you sip while catching up, and what warms your soul after a long day.
During Nowruz, tea flows non-stop. Expect endless refills from a samovar (Persian tea kettle), paired with sweets like baklava or chickpea cookies. It’s a reminder that simple moments—sipping tea, sharing stories—are what really matter.
Steep Into the New Year
Nowruz isn’t just about marking a date—it’s about embracing renewal, light, and fresh starts. Whether you’re celebrating or just looking for a reason to reset, this is your sign: Clear the clutter, set new intentions, and pour yourself a cup of something good.
Nowruz Mobarak! 🌸✨