Persian New Year
2016 Mar 9th
This year, March 20th marks the traditional Persian Festival of Spring otherwise known as Nowruz. For over 3000 years, this New Year celebration has symbolized the renewal and rebirth of nature after the passing of winter. The term Nowruz means "New Day" and represents the beginning of the New Year. Here are some interesting customs on the traditional ways Nowruz is celebrated. Ring in Persian New Year with lots of joy and happiness and plenty of sweet treats from Baskits!
Nowruz Picnic
Traditionally, Persian New Year celebrations last a total of 13 days. On the last day of the spring festival, friends and family gather together and spend the day outdoors in honour of the seasons changing. It is customary on this day to organize a picnic known as "Sizdah Be-dar". Food and drinks are enjoyed on this special day as it is a time spent embracing the positive things in life while being surrounded by nature.
Gifting Sweetmeats (Confectionery!)
During Nowruz, people will often visit family and friends and bring with them traditional sweets to entertain and share among loved ones. The significance of bringing sweets to a Nowruz celebration is the representation of goodwill and a kind gesture. Gaz, a traditional Persian nougat is comprised of 3 classic ingredients; pistachios, rosewater, and manna. This century old sweet is delicious and a much appreciated gift during Nowruz, not too mention a real crowd pleaser!
Nowruz Resolutions
It is believed that the first day of the Persian New Year holds symbolic meaning for the rest of the year. Your actions during Nowruz will influence the rest of the year. As a result, people try to spend the day in a positive and happy manner. It is not a day for arguments or negativity, rather a day that is to be cherished and spent in happy harmony with one another. With that, we wish you a very Happy Nowruz!
