Nowruz Mubarak

By Tonya Justice | Posted: Thursday March 20, 2025

Today is the beginning of a new year for those who celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year.

Nowruz, which translates to ‘new day’ in Persian, is celebrated around the world, particularly in Central Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kurdistan, Turkey, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

This special occasion is celebrated with traditions like Haft-Seen tables, visiting family and friends, bonfires and fireworks, giving gifts to children and cultural performances.

A Haft-seen table is a symbolic table display featuring seven table items that start with the letter ‘S’ in Persian, such as Sabzeh (sprouts), Samanu (sweet pudding), Senjed (sweet dried fruit), Serkeh (vinegar), Seeb (apple), Seer (garlic) and Somaq (sumac).

Shabir and Ali, two of our students, say that their families celebrate with a lot of sweets such as jalebi, baklava, gulab jamun and chocolate cookies. However, as they are observing Ramadan right now, celebrations are quieter this year.

Nowruz Mubarak (Happy New Year) to everyone who is celebrating!