In brief
The ancient holiday of Nowruz, or "new day", signifies the Persian New Year, celebrated by people for more than 3,000 years.
Nowruz, the Persian New Year, commenced on Thursday, heralding an age-old celebration that embraces life, renewal, and rebirth. Observed by more than 300 million people internationally, Nowruz translates to "new day" in Persian. Many on this festive occasion exchange pleasantries by saying "Nowruzetan pirooz," wishing each other a victorious New Year. Connecting to the spring equinox, Nowruz has its roots in the ancient Persian Empire and has been celebrated across the Balkans, Black Sea basin, Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East for millennia. Alireza Hedayati, president of the Iranian American Society of New York, noted the rising excitement among people as winter gives way to spring, initially sparked in late February. As the festivities approach, celebrants prepare by thoroughly cleaning their homes—a custom reminiscent of spring cleaning that welcomes the new year with freshness and vitality.
