What Is Nowruz? A Simple Guide to the Persian New Year in the US & Canada

What Is Nowruz? A Simple Guide to the Persian New Year in the US & Canada

Nowruz—the Persian New Year—marks the first day of spring and is celebrated by millions of people with roots in Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kurdistan, and across the Persian-speaking world. In the United States and Canada, the holiday has become increasingly visible, appearing in schools, community centers, and even major city festivals. For many families in North America, Nowruz is more than a tradition from home—it’s a way to stay connected to their heritage while creating new memories in a multicultural environment.

A Celebration of Renewal

Nowruz begins at the exact moment of the spring equinox, symbolizing rebirth, light, and hope. Homes are cleaned, fresh flowers are placed on tables, and families prepare for a new beginning. Even in North America’s busy lifestyle, celebrating Nowruz brings a sense of grounding and cultural pride.

The Haft-Seen Table in North America

One of the most important parts of Nowruz is the Haft-Seen, a symbolic table with seven items starting with the Persian letter S.
In the US and Canada, many families adapt the table using items they can find at local stores such as Whole Foods, Persian markets, or international grocery sections.

Common items include:

• Sabzeh (sprouted greens) — growth and renewal
• Samanu (wheat pudding) — sweetness and patience
• Seeb (apple) — beauty
• Seer (garlic) — health
• Somāq (sumac) — sunrise and hope
• Senjed (oleaster fruit) — love
• Serkeh (vinegar) — wisdom

Many North American families also add hyacinth flowers, decorated eggs, and even a small digital clock to mark the exact equinox.

How Families Celebrate in the US & Canada

Because Nowruz is not a public holiday in either country, celebrations often happen on weekends. Many communities host Nowruz festivals featuring Persian food, music, and traditional dance.
Cities like Los Angeles, Toronto, Vancouver, Washington D.C., and New York hold some of the largest celebrations outside Iran.

Popular traditions include:

• Chaharshanbe Suri (jumping over bonfires before Nowruz)
• Visiting friends and family during the 13-day celebration
• Giving gifts, especially to children
• Cooking traditional dishes such as sabzi polo, kuku sabzi, or fish

Nowruz as a North American Cultural Bridge

Increasingly, schools and workplaces in the US and Canada acknowledge Nowruz. Many children now bring small Haft-Seen items to show-and-tell, and adults share the holiday with co-workers.
For newcomers, Nowruz offers a moment of comfort and familiarity during immigration. For second-generation Iranians, Afghans, and Tajiks, it becomes a link between identity and heritage.

Why Nowruz Matters in the US & Canada

In a multicultural society, Nowruz stands as a symbol of renewal, peace, and inclusion. Whether celebrated quietly at home or at large community events, it brings people together and honors a tradition that has survived for more than 3,000 years.