International Day of Nowruz

International Day of Nowruz History

International Day of Nowruz celebrates the Iranian/Persian New Year. This worldwide event occurs precisely at the moment of the Spring equinox, symbolising rebirth and renewal. Nowruz is more than just a cultural celebration; it represents unity, peace, reconciliation, and neighbourliness, resolving conflicts and discords. It is a celebration that highlights respect for nature, intercultural understanding, human rights, and cultural diversity.

Nowruz, also known as Persian New Year, is said to have been celebrated for over 3,000 years, dating back to the reign of the Persian Empire. Recognising the significance of this tradition, the United Nations General Assembly, in 2010, proclaimed 21 March as International Day of Nowruz. For the Australian Iranians and Persian-speaking community, this day signifies renewal, family unity, and respect for the environment and heritage. It provides an opportunity to share their rich culture and traditions with the broader Australian community and allows diverse cultures in Australia to come together, showcasing unity in diversity.

In Australia, the International Day of Nowruz is celebrated with public festivals, concerts, and public talks that showcase Persian culture, literature, music, and dances. People prepare special meals, decorate their homes, and engage in family reunions. This day offers a chance for Australians of all background to learn about and appreciate the culture and traditions of their Iranian and Persian-speaking compatriots. International Day of Nowruz usually falls on 21 March or the preceding/following day depending on where it is observed, in relation to the Spring equinox in Iran.

Facts about International Day of Nowruz

• International Day of Nowruz is celebrated by many countries in western, central, and southern Asia. These include Afghanistan, Georgia, Albania, Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan.
• The oldest records of Nowruz go back to 247 B.C during the Arsacid/Parthian times.
• One tradition during Nowruz is to pay short house visits to family, friends, and neighbors.
• Messages of peace, unity, and reconciliation are often highlighted during Nowruz celebrations in Australia, reflecting the holiday's origins as a celebration of the arrival of spring and a time for renewal.
• Some of the public Nowruz celebrations in Australia also include activities for children such as egg-decorating and face painting, which aligns with the tradition of creating a "Haft Seen" table (which features seven symbolic items that start with the letter "S" in the Persian language).

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Nowruz

Top things to do in Australia for International Day of Nowruz

• Give your family members gifts. On the first day of Nowruz, family members gather around the Haft Seen table and await the exact moment of spring. Once it arrivesm, everyone exchanges gifts.
• Enjoy a picnic. On the last day of Nowruz it is custom to go outdoors and have picnics and parties as a way to avoid bad luck.
• Attend A Perth Nowruz Festival: The Iranian Community of Western Australia organizes an annual festival to celebrate Nowruz. Metro City becomes filled with live music, Persian food, and a variety of shows.
• Read a book to learn more about Nowruz in Australia:
  In Search of Fatima: A Palestinian Story - by Ghada Karmi: While primarily centered on Palestine, this book provides insight into Middle Eastern traditions and festivals, including Nowruz.
  The Persian Book of Kings: Iran's Epic 'Shahnameh' - by Abolqasem Ferdowsi: This offers an extensive look into Persian culture and celebrations.