Nowruz

Nowruz is the Persian New Year. The word Nowruz means new day. It happens on the first day of spring, around March 20 or 21. People in Iran, Afghanistan, and many other countries celebrate it. The holiday is more than 3,000 years old.

The Haft-sin Table

Families set up a special table called the Haft-sin. It holds seven items that all start with the letter S in Persian. Each item stands for something good, like health or love. There might be apples, garlic, vinegar, and sprouts on the table. Families also add a mirror, candles, and colored eggs.

Family Traditions

People clean their homes before Nowruz to welcome the new year. They buy new clothes and cook special meals. Families visit each other and share gifts. Children often get money from older relatives. The celebrations last for 13 days.

Fun Facts

• Nowruz is celebrated by more than 300 million people worldwide.
• On the 13th day, families go outside for a picnic to bring good luck.
• The United Nations added Nowruz to its list of special holidays in 2010.

Did You Know?

People jump over small bonfires on the last Tuesday before Nowruz. This tradition is believed to bring good health for the new year.