Happy Nowruz!

Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring! Also known as Newroz or Nauroz–meaning New Day–it takes place during the spring equinox, when the sun crosses the celestial equator going south to north and a new season begins.

For over 300 million people worldwide, including Persian, Kurdish, Afghan and many Central and West Asian communities, this day celebrates renewal, hope and new beginnings.

Although traditions vary between cultures, the spirit of this day remains the same: bringing families and communities together and welcoming the coming year with renewed spirit.

Some traditions include:

• The Haft-Sin (Seven Table) is a particularly meaningful tradition in Iran. Families prepare a table with items beginning with the Persian letter S. Examples being sabzeh (sprouts for renewal), seeb (apple for health and beauty) and serkeh (vinegar for patience and wisdom), each symbolising hopes for the year ahead. The table reflects renewal and resilience – messages that feel especially powerful as Iranians continue to strive for dignity, freedom and a better future.

• “Agirê Newrozê” (Newroz Fire) is a defining tradition in Kurdish Newroz celebrations. Large bonfires are lit, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and the enduring spirit of freedom. People gather around the flames to sing, dance and welcome the new year together. For many Kurds, the fire remains a powerful symbol of strength and perseverance.

• “Samanak” is a cherished Nowruz tradition in Afghanistan. This sweet paste made from sprouted wheat is slowly cooked for hours as women and girls gather around the pot, taking turns stirring while singing traditional songs. The preparation itself becomes a celebration of community and friendship, reflecting the strength and unity that continue to carry Afghan communities forward.

While this is a joyful celebration, many of the communities observing Nowruz today are living through difficult and uncertain times. Especially in Iran, Kurdistan, Afghanistan but also across the whole region. Because of this, the message of the holiday – renewal, perseverance and hope for better days ahead – is especially meaningful.

We stand in solidarity with the brave people of Iran, the strong Kurdish communities and the enduring strength of the Afghan people as well as with all people around the world who continue to struggle for dignity, justice and a better future.

Summary:

• Nowruz (Newroz/Nauroz) marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, celebrated by over 300 million people across Persian, Kurdish, Afghan and many Central and West Asian communities.

• The holiday centers around renewal, community and new beginnings, bringing families and communities together to welcome the new year.

• Traditions vary across cultures, including Haft-Sin tables in Iran, Newroz fires in Kurdish celebrations and Samanak gatherings in Afghanistan, each symbolizing hopes for the year ahead.

• While Nowruz is a joyful celebration, many of the communities observing it today are also facing difficult and uncertain times across the region.

• The message of Nowruz – renewal, perseverance and hope for a better future — therefore feels especially meaningful today and we stand in solidarity with all those continuing to strive for dignity, justice and peace.

May the new year bring peace, joy and new beginnings to everyone celebrating.

Nowruz mobarak! (Farsi)

Nowruz mubarak! (Dari)

Nowruz mo mubarak sha! (Pashto)

Newroz pîroz be! (Kurdish)

With love,

The Inclusivity Group