My favorite memory as a child takes place in the dining room of my mom’s home on the day of Nowruz, where I would help her set up the traditional Sofreh Haftseen, while my grandmother in the kitchen would make Shirini (Iranian desserts) typically served on Persian New Year.

For Iranians, Nowruz (Now = “New”, Ruz = “Day”) is one of, if not the most, celebrated holidays in Iran. This day marks the beginning of the spring equinox and is considered to be the greatest tradition that Iranians commemorate, where we celebrate the beauties of life, give thanks for what we have and appreciate those whom we can share these precious times with. This year is extra special as it is the year 1400 based on the sun calendar – this means it is a new century and will take another 100 years to see this happen again. 

The amount of dancing and food could be enough to last a lifetime, or so it feels. There is so much abundance in culture and love that it feels as though it is heaven on Earth. It’s like Christmas, New Year, and basically any other holiday packed into one with a big touch of Persian heritage. Just be sure to give any Iranianm some chaii nabaat  to relax at the end. (chaii = “tea”, nabaat = “candy sugar” [like rock candy])

To honor this tradition, a spread called Sofreh Haftseen is put together, and each item within the spread symbolizes the elements in nature: earth, water, fire and wind. Haftseen in Farsi means “Seven S’s”, where then spread must have seven items that, in Farsi, begin with the letter “S”.

These items and what they symbolize include:

1. Somagh (sumac): the color of sunrise

2. Serkeh (vinegar): age and patience

3. Senjed (dried fruit): love

4. Samanoo (sweet pudding): affluence

5. Sabzeh (sprouts): rebirth

6. Sib (apple): health and beauty

7. Sir (garlic): medicine

You may also see these essentials within the spread:

·       Sombol (Hyacinth): the coming of spring

·       Sekkeh (gold coins): prosperity and wealth

·       Shirini (desserts): sweetness

·       Mahi (fish): life

·       Tokhmemorg (eggs): fertility

·       Ayeeneh (mirror): reflection

One of my favorite videos on BBC explains the importance, background and details for the celebration of Iranian New Year, Nowruz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZnoNXrkfO0

If you know any Iranians, be sure to say “Eid Nowruz Mubarak!”  this weekend as you are recognizing and wishing them a beautiful new spring. May this time bring you all joy, love, great health and stronger connections with your loved ones!