How is Nowruz celebrated as the Persian New Year?

Nowruz, meaning "new day" in Persian, is a significant festival marking the Persian calendar new year on the spring equinox.1

Celebrations in Iran involve several key traditions:

• Haft-sīn Table: A central feature is the haft-sīn ("seven s's"), a decorative spread featuring seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter s, such as sabzeh (sprouted wheatgrass) for rebirth and samanū (wheat pudding) for strength.12
• Rituals and Festivities: The Tuesday before Nowruz, known as Chahārshanbeh Sūrī (Scarlet Wednesday), features rituals like jumping over bonfires. The holiday includes cleaning homes, visiting relatives, and enjoying music, poetry, and traditional dances.31
• Characters: The arrival is often heralded by Hājī Fīrūz, a troubadour dressed in red and covered in soot, and Amu Nowruz (Uncle Nowruz), who brings gifts to children.3
• Conclusion: The festivities conclude on the 13th day of Farvardīn with Sīzdah Bedar, a day marked by outdoor picnics.3

While rooted in Zoroastrianism, Nowruz is today a largely secular cultural festival.1