Nowruz: The Persian New Year 

Nowruz, also called Norooz or Nawruz, is the Persian New Year celebrated by millions of people worldwide. This ancient festival marks the beginning of spring and is a time for renewal and joy. 

When is Nowruz Celebrated? 

Nowruz falls on the first spring day, around March 20th or 21st (March 20, 2025, at 5:24 p.m. Eastern time.) 

It is celebrated on the vernal equinox when day and night are equal in length.  

The Origins of Nowruz 

Nowruz has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It has its roots in Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest religions. Today, it is celebrated in many countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and parts of India and the Middle East. 

How is Nowruz Celebrated? 

Nowruz celebrations last for about two weeks and include a variety of customs and traditions: 

• House Cleaning: Before Nowruz, families clean their homes thoroughly. This is known as "shaking the house" and symbolises getting rid of the old to make way for the new. 
• Haft-Seen Table: One of the most important traditions is setting up a Haft-Seen table. This table includes seven items that start with the Persian letter "S." These items typically include: 
  1. Sabzeh: Sprouted wheat or lentils, symbolising rebirth. 
  2. Samanu: A sweet pudding, representing power and strength. 
  3. Senjed: Dried oleaster fruit, signifying love. 
  4. Seer: Garlic, for health. 
  5. Seeb: Apples, for beauty. 
  6. Somāq: Sumac berries, symbolising the sunrise. 
  7. Serkeh: Vinegar, representing patience and wisdom.
• New Clothes: People often wear new clothes to welcome the new year. 
• Fire Jumping: On the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, known as Chaharshanbe Suri, people jump over bonfires. This tradition is meant to purify and bring good luck. 
• Visiting Family and Friends: During Nowruz, people visit the homes of family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals together. 
• Sizdah Bedar: On the 13th day of Nowruz, families go outdoors for picnics. This day, called Sizdah Bedar, is spent in nature to celebrate the end of the New Year festivities and to get rid of any bad luck. 

The Spirit of Nowruz 

Nowruz is more than just a New Year celebration. It is a time for renewal, hope, and looking forward to a bright future. It brings together families and communities, promoting peace, harmony, and goodwill. 

Whether you are Persian or not, Nowruz is a beautiful celebration of life, nature, and the promise of new beginnings. 

Read more about the Persian New Year at: 

https://blog.twmuseums.org.uk/persian-new-year/ 

Also, check at North Tyneside Music Education Hub:  

https://ntmeh.org.uk/events/category/6-11/?post_type=tribe_events&eventDisplay=week&eventDate=2025-04-04 

for the First Spring Sing in The Playhouse Whitley Bay