Nowruz, meaning “New Day” in Persian, marks the beginning of the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. It is an ancient festival, celebrated for over 3,000 years, symbolising renewal, hope, and joy over sorrow. Nowruz aligns with the spring equinox, making it a universal celebration of nature’s rebirth. This year, Nowruz is celebrated on Thursday, 20th March.
Nowruz has its roots in Zoroastrianism, one of the worldβs oldest religions popular in Iran pre-Islam, and has been observed across Persia and Central Asia for centuries. It is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and remains an important holiday for many.
Nowruz is widely observed in:
π Iran
π Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan
π Azerbaijan, Turkey, and parts of the Middle East
π Kurdish regions in Iraq and Syria
There are many cultural and historical traditions associated with Nowruz. These include:
1. Khane-Tekani β The Ritual of Spring Cleaning π§Ήβ¨
Before Nowruz begins, families participate in Khane-Tekani (which means “shaking the house”). This deep spring cleaning is more than just tidying upβit symbolizes letting go of the old and making space for new beginnings. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, decorated with fresh flowers like hyacinths (Sonbol), and sometimes even renovated. Many people also buy new clothes and household items to welcome the new year with a fresh start.
2. The Haft-Seen Table β A Symbol of Renewal
A key tradition of Nowruz is the Haft-Seen, a beautifully decorated table with seven symbolic items that start with the Persian letter “S” (Ψ³). Each represents a different aspect of life:
π Seeb (Apple) β Beauty and health
πΏ Sabzeh (Sprouted wheat or lentils) β Rebirth and growth
π― Samanu (Sweet pudding) β Strength and prosperity
π§ Seer (Garlic) β Protection and health
π Senjed (Dried oleaster fruit) β Wisdom and love
π· Serkeh (Vinegar) β Patience and aging
π Somaq (Sumac) β The sunrise and victory of good over evil
Additional items include a mirror (reflection), candles (light), painted eggs (fertility), a goldfish (life), and a book of poetry or prayers.
3. Festive Foods β A Culinary Delight
No Nowruz celebration is complete without a delicious feast! Traditional dishes include:
π Sabzi Polo ba Mahi β Herb-infused rice with fish, symbolising prosperity
π₯ Kuku Sabzi β A Persian herb frittata for renewal and health
π₯£ Ash Reshteh β A thick Persian noodle soup for good fortune
π¬ Persian sweets like Baklava, Nan-e Nokhodchi, and Sohan
4. Jumping Over Fire β Chaharshanbe Suri π₯
Before Nowruz, people gather to jump over bonfires in a tradition called Chaharshanbe Suri (Red Wednesday). As they leap, they chant:
“Zardi-ye man az toh, sorkhi-ye toh az man”
(“May my sickness go to you, and may your energy come to me.”)
This ritual symbolizes letting go of the past and welcoming a fresh start.
5. What to Wear for Nowruz?
During Nowruz, people wear new clothes to symbolize a fresh beginning.
6. Family Gatherings & Gift Giving π
Nowruz is a time for family reunions, visiting loved ones, and exchanging gifts. Children often receive Eydiβsmall sums of money as a blessing for a prosperous year ahead.
7. Nature and Outdoor Festivities β Sizdah Bedar
On the 13th day of Nowruz, families head outdoors for a picnic, known as Sizdah Bedar. Itβs a day to embrace nature, play games, and let go of worries. Traditionally, people throw their Sabzeh (sprouts) into running water to symbolize casting away bad luck.
Celebrate Nowruz with us in Lucerne!
On Saturday, 22nd March we will be hosting a Nowruz event at the LiLi Centre, and we invite you to join! Running from 4pm – 10pm, join us for a night of culture, music, delicious food, and traditions as we celebrate the beauty of new beginnings.
Location: LiLi Centre, Alpenquai 40A, 6005 Luzern
Time: 4pm – 10pm
Price: Adult CHF 38.-, student, volunteer and LiLi Member CHF 28.-, child: CHF 15.-
Sign-up on the LiLi Centre website! We look forward to celebrating with you.
