Nowruz (Persian New Year):
Nowruz is one of the most important and widely celebrated traditional ceremonies in Iran. It marks the beginning of spring and the Persian New Year, usually occurring on or around March 21st. Nowruz celebrations typically last for two weeks and involve various rituals, including the setting of a Haft-Seen table, which is adorned with seven symbolic items representing different aspects of life. Families gather, exchange gifts, visit relatives, and engage in joyful festivities.
Haft-Seen is one of the central traditions of Norouz is the creation of a Haft-Seen table. Haft-Seen means "seven S's" in Persian, referring to seven items that start with the letter "S" in the Persian alphabet. These items, which vary slightly from region to region, include Sabzeh (sprouts representing rebirth), Samanu (sweet pudding symbolizing affluence), Senjed (dried fruit symbolizing love), Serkeh (vinegar representing age and patience), Seeb (apple symbolizing beauty), Seer (garlic symbolizing good health), and Somaq (sumac representing the color of sunrise). Other symbolic items and decorations are also added to the table.
Chaharshanbe Suri:
Chaharshanbe Suri, also known as the Persian Fire Festival, is celebrated on the last Tuesday night before Nowruz. This ancient pre-Islamic festival involves jumping over bonfires while reciting traditional phrases symbolizing letting go of the past year's misfortunes and embracing the new year's blessings. People also light firecrackers and fireworks, and the night is filled with music, dancing, and street performances.
Sizdah Bedar:
Sizdah Bedar, also known as Nature's Day, is celebrated on the 13th day of the Persian New Year (Nowruz). It is a day when people spend time outdoors, have picnics, and enjoy nature. Many Iranians believe that staying outdoors on this day brings good luck and wards off bad omens.
Yalda Night:
Yalda Night, also known as Shab-e Yalda, is a celebration of the winter solstice, which takes place on the longest night of the year, around December 21st. It has ancient Zoroastrian roots and is marked by staying awake throughout the night, gathering with family and friends, and reciting poetry. People consume pomegranates, watermelons, and nuts, symbolizing the harvest and the rebirth of the sun.
Mehregan:
Mehregan is an ancient Persian festival that dates back to the Achaemenid Empire. It is celebrated in honor of the Persian goddess of love and friendship, Mehr. Mehregan is observed on the 196th day of the Persian calendar, around October 2nd. The festival features music, dancing, storytelling, and the preparation of special dishes. People often gather outdoors, wear colorful clothes, and participate in traditional games and activities.
Sepandarmazgan:
this is an ancient Iranian festival celebrated on the 5th day of the Persian month of Esfand, which usually falls around February 24th. It is a festival dedicated to Spenta Armaiti, the Zoroastrian angel of love, earth, and fertility.
Sepandarmazgan is a day to honor and celebrate love, kindness, and friendship. The festival has its roots in pre-Islamic Persia and is a precursor to the modern Valentine's Day celebrated in many parts of the world.
