As the Persian New Year of Nowruz arrives once again, millions around the world, including communities across Orange County, Los Angeles, and Kashmir, are embracing the arrival of spring with hope, joy, and cultural festivities. Rooted in over three millennia of history, Nowruz remains the most significant celebration in the Iranian calendar and is observed by more than 300 million people worldwide.
Recognized by the United Nations as the International Day of Nowruz on March 21, the festival carries a universal message of renewal, unity, and prosperity. While its origins trace back to ancient Persia and Zoroastrian traditions, Nowruz is now a global celebration, welcoming all who cherish the themes of rebirth, light, and goodwill.
Celebrating Kashmir’s Festival Symphony
Navroz, the Parsi New Year, is greatly celebrated by the Zoroastrian community in Kashmir—the festival, which usually falls in March, signifies spring’s arrival and life’s renewal. In the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, Navroz is marked with vibrant rituals, festive gatherings, and a deep reverence for nature, reflecting the region’s unique blend of Persian and local influences.
Orange County’s Nowruz Festivities
In Orange County, organizations such as the Iranian American Community Group Orange County, Farhang Foundation, and the Network of Iranian American Professionals of Orange County are hosting special events to mark the occasion. These celebrations feature traditional music, dance performances, Persian cuisine, and community gatherings, reflecting the deep cultural heritage of the Iranian-American community in Southern California.
LACMA’s 7th Annual Nowruz Festival
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is once again hosting its Annual Nowruz Celebration, a day filled with artistic and cultural showcases. Visitors can enjoy:
- Live performances featuring Persian music and dance
- A vibrant parade with traditional Iranian costumes
- Storytelling sessions for children, sharing Nowruz legends
- A stunning Haft-Sin display, showcasing seven symbolic items representing renewal and good fortune
- Persian-inspired cuisine, offering a taste of Iran’s rich culinary traditions
How People Celebrate Nowruz
From grand public events to intimate family traditions, Nowruz is observed in various ways:
- Setting up the Haft-Sin table – A traditional display of seven symbolic items, all starting with the Persian letter “Seen,” representing different aspects of life and prosperity
- Jumping over bonfires (Chaharshanbe Suri) – A ritual symbolizing the purification of the past year’s hardships and welcoming a fresh start
- Family gatherings and feasts – Special dishes like sabzi polo ba mahi (herbed rice with fish) and kuku sabzi (herb frittata) are prepared
- Outdoor picnics on Sizdah Bedar – The 13th day of Nowruz is marked by a day spent in nature, emphasizing harmony with the environment
Nowruz: A Celebration for All
Though Nowruz originated in ancient Persia, its universal message resonates far beyond Iranian communities. It is a time to reflect, to cherish loved ones, and to welcome the promise of a new season.
As the official moment of Nowruz arrives at 3:45:11 PM this Friday, people across Southern California, Kashmir, and beyond will embrace this ancient tradition, celebrating life, renewal, and the shared hopes for peace and prosperity.
Happy #Nowruz
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