Today March 20 is the Spring Equinox, also the Persian New year (Nowruz), which is celebrated by fellow Iranians and many other Middle East people.

Spring Equinox (Google Doodle)

Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in the Persian calendar. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical Northward equinox (Wikipedia).

As I was informed by my office mate, there is a tradition “Haft Sin” of putting seven things with names started with “Sin (s)” on a table (or a tablecloth). The examples of seven items are apple, coin, garlic, sumac, hyacinth, greenery and vinegar. Besides these seven things, “Quran”, mirror, water, clock, a red fish, some colorful eggs, candle, fruits, confectionery and other things are also placed on the table for decoration. Each of the item has its own symbol, such as being new, fertility, cleanliness, wealth, superfluity.
In the time of entering to New Year, families come together around this tablecloth. They read Quran and a special prayer and they celebrate the New Year. (Most info written is based on this website)

When you meet a Iranian or a middle east friend, remember to wish them “Nowruz Mubarak“, which means “Happy New Year”.

Happy Persian New Year everyone! Nowruz Mubarak!
– CHBE Graduate Student Club

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