Nowruz is one of the most significant and vibrant annual celebrations in Iran, marking the start of the Persian New Year. This festivity, whose history dates back over 3000 years, coincides with the vernal equinox – the moment when the Sun crosses the equator making day and night of equal length. Nowruz, meaning 'new day', symbolizes rebirth and renewal, proudly reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the nation.
The festival of Nowruz is observed with great enthusiasm and involves various traditions and rituals. Haft Sin, an arrangement of seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter 'S', is a prominent centerpiece in Iranian households during the festival. These items typically include sprouts, sweet pudding, apple, garlic, vinegar, and sumac fruit, among others, each representing a distinct concept such as love, health, and prosperity.
Not just confined to the domestic sphere, Nowruz unfolds over two weeks culminating in an outdoor celebration called Sizdah Bedar, often referred to as Nature's Day. On this day, Iranians pack up their picnic baskets and head out to relax and enjoy in the bounty of nature, symbolizing the end of the New Year celebrations. Despite being deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism, Nowruz has transcended religious boundaries and is celebrated by various communities across the globe and has been registered on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.